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Beltran SJ, Molina O, Chapple R. Enhancing End-of-Life Care Knowledge Among Older Spanish-Speaking Adults: Results From a Pilot Educational Intervention on Advance Care Planning and Care Options. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024:10499091241246057. [PMID: 38621826 DOI: 10.1177/10499091241246057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disparities in advance care planning (ACP) among older Latinos necessitate targeted interventions to enhance engagement and knowledge in end-of-life care. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a resource-efficient, culturally tailored educational intervention in improving ACP readiness and knowledge among older Latino adults in the community. METHODS A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was used to assess the impact of the intervention. The study involved community-dwelling older Latinos (aged 61-94) in the U.S. attending community wellness centers. Measures included participants' knowledge of ACP, care options, familiarity with hospice and palliative care, and attitudes toward hospice, assessed using pre- and post-intervention surveys. RESULTS Statistically significant improvements were observed in ACP knowledge, understanding of care options, and attitudes towards hospice and palliative care post-intervention. Demographic factors influenced knowledge scores, with no significant gender differences in the intervention's efficacy. CONCLUSIONS The educational intervention effectively enhanced end-of-life care planning readiness and knowledge among older Latinos. The study highlights the potential for sustainable, accessible, and culturally sensitive educational strategies to reduce disparities in ACP knowledge and possibly engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanny J Beltran
- School of Social Work, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Olga Molina
- School of Social Work, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Reshawna Chapple
- School of Social Work, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
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Landau AY, Venkatram C, Song J, Topaz M, Klitzman R, Shang J, Stone P, McDonald M, Cohen B. Home Care Clinicians' Perspectives on Advance Care Planning for Patients at Risk for Becoming Incapacitated With No Evident Advance Directives or Surrogates. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2024; 26:74-81. [PMID: 38340056 PMCID: PMC10940180 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Advance care planning is important and timely for patients receiving home health services; however, opportunities to facilitate awareness and engagement in this setting are often missed. This qualitative descriptive study elicited perspectives of home health nurses and social workers regarding barriers and facilitators to creating advance care plans in home health settings, with particular attention to patients with few familial or social contacts who can serve as surrogate decision-makers. We interviewed 15 clinicians employed in a large New York City-based home care agency in 2021-2022. Participants reported a multitude of barriers to supporting patients with advance care planning at the provider level (eg, lack of time and professional education, deferment, discomfort), patient level (lack of knowledge, mistrust, inadequate support, deferment, language barriers), and system level (eg, discontinuity of care, variations in advance care planning documents, legal concerns, lack of institutional protocols and centralized information). Participants noted that greater socialization and connection to existing educational resources regarding the intended purpose, scope, and applicability of advance directives could benefit home care patients.
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McMahan RD, Hickman SE, Sudore RL. What Clinicians and Researchers Should Know About the Evolving Field of Advance Care Planning: a Narrative Review. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:652-660. [PMID: 38169025 PMCID: PMC10973287 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08579-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Advance care planning (ACP) has been recognized as crucial by patients, families, and clinicians; however, different definitions and measurements have led to inconsistencies in practice and mixed evidence in the literature. This narrative review explores ACP's evolution, innovations, and outcomes using thematic analysis to synthesize data from randomized controlled trials, reviews, and editorials. Key findings include (1) ACP has evolved over the past several decades from a sole focus on code status and advance directive (AD) forms to a continuum of care planning over the life course focused on tailored preparation for patients and surrogate decision-makers and (2) ACP measurement has evolved from traditional outcome metrics, such as AD completion, to a comprehensive outcomes framework that includes behavior change theory, systems, implementation science, and a focus on surrogate outcomes. Since the recent development of an ACP consensus definition and outcomes framework, high-quality trials have reported mainly positive outcomes for interventions, especially for surrogates, which aligns with the patient desire to relieve decision-making burden for loved ones. Additionally, measurement of "clinically meaningful" ACP information, including documented goals of care discussions, is increasingly being integrated into electronic health records (EHR), and emerging, real-time assessments and natural language processing are enhancing ACP evaluation. To make things easier for patients, families, and care teams, clinicians and researchers can use and disseminate these evolved definitions; provide patients validated, easy-to-use tools that prime patients for conversations and decrease health disparities; use easy-to-access clinician training and simple scripts for interdisciplinary team members; and document patients' values and preferences in the medical record to capture clinically meaningful ACP so this information is available at the point of care. Future efforts should focus on efficient implementation, expanded reimbursement options, and seamless integration of EHR documentation to ensure ACP's continued evolution to better serve patients and their care partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D McMahan
- Division of Geriatrics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Veterans Administration Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Susan E Hickman
- Department of Community & Health Systems, Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Regenstrief Institute Inc, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Rebecca L Sudore
- Division of Geriatrics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Veterans Administration Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
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4
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Carter RZ, Siden E, Husband A, Barwich D, Soheilipour S, Kryworuchko J, Sawatzky R, Kazanjian A, Stajduhar K, Hassan E. Community-led, peer-facilitated Advance Care Planning workshops prompt increased Advance Care Planning behaviors among public attendees. PEC INNOVATION 2023; 3:100199. [PMID: 37662691 PMCID: PMC10474229 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2023.100199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective Despite recognized benefits, engagement in Advance Care Planning (ACP) remains low. Research into peer-facilitated, group ACP interventions is limited. This study investigated the acceptability of community-led peer-facilitated ACP workshops for the public and whether these workshops are associated with increased knowledge, motivation and engagement in ACP behaviors. Methods Peer-facilitators from 9 community organizations were recruited and trained to deliver free ACP workshops to members of the public with an emphasis on conversation. Using a cohort design, workshop acceptability and engagement in ACP behaviors was assessed by surveying public participants at the end of the workshop and 4-6 weeks later. Results 217 participants returned post-workshop questionnaires, and 69 returned follow-up questionnaires. Over 90% of participants felt they gained knowledge across all 6 learning goals. Every ACP behavior saw a statistically significant increase in participant completion after 4-6 weeks. Almost all participants were glad they attended (94%) and would recommend the workshop to others (95%). Conclusion This study revealed an association of peer-facilitated ACP workshops and completion of ACP behaviors in public participants. Innovation This innovative approach supports investment in the spread of community-based, peer-facilitated ACP workshops for the public as important ACP promotion strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Z. Carter
- British Columbia Centre for Palliative Care, New Westminster, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ellie Siden
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Amber Husband
- British Columbia Centre for Palliative Care, New Westminster, Canada
| | - Doris Barwich
- British Columbia Centre for Palliative Care, New Westminster, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Shimae Soheilipour
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Richard Sawatzky
- School of Nursing, Trinity Western University, Langley, Canada
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Arminee Kazanjian
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Eman Hassan
- British Columbia Centre for Palliative Care, New Westminster, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Carter RZ, Hassan E, Porterfield P, Barwich D. A model for community-led peer-facilitated advance care planning workshops for the public. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2023; 17:26323524231212515. [PMID: 38033874 PMCID: PMC10685751 DOI: 10.1177/26323524231212515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The core to successful advance care planning (ACP) facilitation is helping people determine their values, beliefs and wishes, and understand substitute decision-making. Recognizing the potential for community members to support public awareness and education we developed a model of ACP education, whereby peer facilitators associated with community organizations host workshops that educate and assist members of the public with ACP. Objectives Describe the development and evaluation of the model for community-led peer-facilitated ACP workshops for the public. Design Descriptive mixed methods. Methods A training curriculum and program model were co-developed with two community organizations that had been successful in delivering ACP workshops independently in their communities. Herein we describe a mixed-methods evaluation of three cycles of implementation and improvement of the model. Results The model centers on three key concepts; the right content (based around three steps Think, Talk, Plan), the right facilitator, and the right approach. A suite of tools was designed to support the three groups involved in the delivery of the ACP workshops: the public participants, the peer facilitators, and the community-based organizations. The peer-facilitator training addresses the facilitator's learning needs of ACP content knowledge, facilitation skills, and understanding change behavior. Training evaluation data from 106 facilitators confirmed that the curriculum prepared them to facilitate the workshops. Qualitative data revealed that support from organizations with established reputations in their community is critical, with mentoring from more experienced facilitators beneficial. Conclusion Our model demonstrates the potential of community-led, peer-facilitated ACP initiatives to enhance the capacity of community to upstream ACP conversations. Reaching a broader audience and creating a supportive, inclusive environment for individuals to comfortably learn about ACP can drive the much-needed culture shift to normalize ACP. Meaningful community engagement, empowerment, and partnerships are essential for the successful development and widespread impact of these initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Z Carter
- Division of Palliative Care, The University of British Columbia, 6389 Stadium Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- BC Centre for Palliative Care, PMB 691, 101-1001 W. Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6H 4E4, Canada
| | - Eman Hassan
- BC Centre for Palliative Care, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Doris Barwich
- BC Centre for Palliative Care, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of Palliative Care, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Zhang P, Sun F, Hirsch J. Perceived Barriers and Social Cultural Factors Associated With Advance Care Planning Conversations Among Chinese American Older Adults. J Appl Gerontol 2023; 42:2110-2118. [PMID: 37204849 DOI: 10.1177/07334648231176142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the well-documented benefits of advance care planning (ACP), persistent racial and ethnic disparities continue to exist in ACP engagement. Guided by a social ecological model, this study examined perceived barriers and sociocultural factors associated with informal ACP conversations among Chinese American older adults. A purposive sample of 281 community-dwelling older Chinese Americans aged 55 years or older in Arizona and Maryland completed a survey in 2018. Hierarchical logistic regression models were conducted. There were 26.5% of participants who engaged in advance care planning. Lower perceived barriers and sociocultural factors (i.e., length of stay in the U.S. and English language proficiency) were positively associated with ACP conversations. Social support had a significant moderation effect. Findings highlighted the importance of language services and social support in facilitating ACP discussions among older Chinese immigrants. Effective strategies are needed to reduce the barriers to ACP at various levels for older Chinese American populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyuan Zhang
- School of Social Work, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Fei Sun
- School of Social Work, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jen Hirsch
- School of Social Work, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Ntizimira CR, Maniragaba T, Ndoli DA, Safari LC, Uwintsinzi A, Uwinkindi F. Making Advance Care Planning a part of cancer patients' end-of-life care in Rwanda. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR EVIDENZ, FORTBILDUNG UND QUALITAT IM GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2023; 180:21-24. [PMID: 37438169 DOI: 10.1016/j.zefq.2023.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
After the devastating damage inflicted by the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Rwanda made great strides in reconstructing its healthcare system from scratch. Although cancer mortality rates continue to rise, there is still a dearth of qualified healthcare workers for advance care planning (ACP) for terminally ill patients. I will draw on lessons learned through the literature search for the initiation of ACP and reflect on their adaptation to the existing policies, healthcare systems, and workforce in Rwanda. We hope to introduce advance care planning into the clinical package given to patients with cancers in terminal illness and their families in Rwanda. The introduction of ACP by skilled, qualified, and specialized healthcare professionals in Rwanda will help establish a practical ACP strategy at the hospital and in the community to benefit patients and their loved ones for an enhanced quality of life in end-of-life care. There is a need for training, policy-making, and community mobilization for the awareness of ACP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian R Ntizimira
- African Center for Research on End-of-Life Care, Kigali, Rwanda; College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Theoneste Maniragaba
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda; College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | - Lambert C Safari
- African Center for Research on End-of-Life Care, Kigali, Rwanda; College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda; Butare University Teaching Hospital, Huye, Rwanda
| | | | - Francois Uwinkindi
- Division Manager, Noncommunicable Diseases, Rwanda Biomedical Centre, Kigali, Rwanda
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Rosa WE, Izumi S, Sullivan DR, Lakin J, Rosenberg AR, Creutzfeldt CJ, Lafond D, Tjia J, Cotter V, Wallace C, Sloan DE, Cruz-Oliver DM, DeSanto-Madeya S, Bernacki R, Leblanc TW, Epstein AS. Advance Care Planning in Serious Illness: A Narrative Review. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:e63-e78. [PMID: 36028176 PMCID: PMC9884468 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Advance care planning (ACP) intends to support person-centered medical decision-making by eliciting patient preferences. Research has not identified significant associations between ACP and goal-concordant end-of-life care, leading to justified scientific debate regarding ACP utility. OBJECTIVE To delineate ACP's potential benefits and missed opportunities and identify an evidence-informed, clinically relevant path ahead for ACP in serious illness. METHODS We conducted a narrative review merging the best available ACP empirical data, grey literature, and emergent scholarly discourse using a snowball search of PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar (2000-2022). Findings were informed by our team's interprofessional clinical and research expertise in serious illness care. RESULTS Early ACP practices were largely tied to mandated document completion, potentially failing to capture the holistic preferences of patients and surrogates. ACP models focused on serious illness communication rather than documentation show promising patient and clinician results. Ideally, ACP would lead to goal-concordant care even amid the unpredictability of serious illness trajectories. But ACP might also provide a false sense of security that patients' wishes will be honored and revisited at end-of-life. An iterative, 'building block' framework to integrate ACP throughout serious illness is provided alongside clinical practice, research, and policy recommendations. CONCLUSIONS We advocate a balanced approach to ACP, recognizing empirical deficits while acknowledging potential benefits and ethical imperatives (e.g., fostering clinician-patient trust and shared decision-making). We support prioritizing patient/surrogate-centered outcomes with more robust measures to account for interpersonal clinician-patient variables that likely inform ACP efficacy and may better evaluate information gleaned during serious illness encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
- William E Rosa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (W.E.R.), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
| | - Shigeko Izumi
- School of Nursing (S.I.), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Donald R Sullivan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine (D.R.S.), School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Joshua Lakin
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care (J.L., R.B.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Abby R Rosenberg
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Pediatrics (A.R.R.), University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington; Palliative Care and Resilience Lab (A.R.R.), Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Debbie Lafond
- Pediatric and Neonatal Needs Advanced (PANDA) Education Consultants (D.L.)
| | - Jennifer Tjia
- Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts (J.T.), Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Valerie Cotter
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University (V.C.), Baltimore, Maryland; School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University (V.C.), Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Cara Wallace
- College for Public Health and Social Justice (C.W.), Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Danetta E Sloan
- Department of Health (D.E.S.), Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Dulce Maria Cruz-Oliver
- Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology (D.M.C.O.), Beacham Center for Geriatric Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Rachelle Bernacki
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care (J.L., R.B.), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Thomas W Leblanc
- Department of Medicine (T.W.L.), Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Andrew S Epstein
- Department of Medicine (A.S.E.), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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Barragan-Carrillo R, Pabon CM, Chavarri-Guerra Y, Soto-Perez-de-Celis E, Duma N. End-of-Life Care and Advanced Directives in Hispanic/Latinx Patients: Challenges and Solutions for the Practicing Oncologist. Oncologist 2022; 27:1074-1080. [PMID: 36288534 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyac211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced end-of-life care (EOL) comprises a group of strategies to provide comfort to patients at the end of life. These are associated with better quality of life, better satisfaction, and a lower rate of hospitalizations and aggressive medical treatment. Advanced EOL care, including advanced directives completion and hospice enrollment, is suboptimal among Hispanic/Latinx patients with cancer due to personal, socio-cultural, financial, and health system-related barriers, as well as due to a lack of studies specifically designed for this population. In addition, the extrapolation of programs that increase participation in EOL for non-white Hispanics may not work appropriately for Hispanic/Latinx patients and lead to overall lower satisfaction and enrollment in EOL care. This review will provide the practicing oncologist with the tools to address EOL in the Hispanic/Latinx population. Some promising strategies to address the EOL care disparities in Latinx/Hispanic patients have been culturally tailored patient navigation programs, geriatric assessment-guided multidisciplinary interventions, counseling sessions, and educational interventions. Through these strategies, we encourage oncologists to take advantage of every clinical setting to discuss EOL care. Treating physicians can engage family members in caring for their loved ones while practicing cultural humility and respecting cultural preferences, incorporating policies to foster treatment for the underserved migrant population, and providing patients with validated Spanish language tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Barragan-Carrillo
- Hematology-Oncology Department Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Cindy M Pabon
- Department of Geriatrics, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubiran, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Yanin Chavarri-Guerra
- Hematology-Oncology Department Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Narjust Duma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Johnson J, Hayden T, Taylor LA. Evaluation of the LIGHT Curriculum: An African American Church-Based Curriculum for Training Lay Health Workers to Support Advance Care Planning, End-of-Life Decision Making, and Care. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:413-420. [PMID: 34515525 PMCID: PMC8968829 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Lay health workers (LHWs) engaging African Americans in conversations about advance care planning (ACP) often have felt unprepared for the challenges of communicating with patients as they approach the end of life. We developed a church-based training curriculum, LIGHT (Listening, Identifying, Guiding, Helping, Translating), in response to this need. Objectives: To evaluate the LIGHT Curriculum by assessing its impact on knowledge, beliefs and attitudes, and self-efficacy of the learners; describing their assessment of the classroom component of the training; and describing their visit activities, and perceptions derived during client visits. Design: prospective, descriptive, pre- and post-training evaluation. Settings/Subjects: Thirty-seven LHWs (Comfort Care Supporters [CCSs]) from three African American Churches (United States). Measurements: knowledge, beliefs and attitudes, assessment of classroom training, self-efficacy, visit activities, and perceptions. Results: Pre-to-post knowledge scores (range 0-26) increased by a mean of 5.23, p < 0.0001. Agreement with favorable beliefs about palliative and hospice care (HC) did not change significantly post-training. Disagreement with unfavorable beliefs about hospice increased, most notably, the belief that hospice means a place where people go to die (43% to 87%, p = 0.003) and HC means giving up (77% to 93%, p = 0.03). Post-training, 94% of the CCSs felt prepared to function in their roles. The CCSs who visited clients demonstrated the ability to engage clients and families in conversations about issues important to ACP, end-of-life decision making and care, and the ability to identify relevant benefits and challenges of their roles. Conclusions: LHWs, trained using the LIGHT Curriculum, can acquire the knowledge and self-efficacy necessary to support African American clients with ACP, end-of-life decision making, and end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry Johnson
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Address correspondence to: Jerry Johnson, MD, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 806 Hilton Lane, Elkins Park, PA 19027, USA
| | - Tara Hayden
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lynne Allen Taylor
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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Rural Hispanic/Latino cancer patients’ perspectives on facilitators, barriers, and suggestions for advance care planning: A qualitative study. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:535-541. [DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521001498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Hispanic/Latinos living in rural areas have limited healthcare resources, including palliative and hospice care. Moreover, little is known about advance care planning (ACP) among Hispanic/Latino cancer patients in rural areas. This study explores facilitators and barriers for ACP. It elicits suggestions to promote ACP among rural Hispanic/Latino cancer patients in a US/Mexico border region.
Methods
Hispanic/Latino cancer patients (n = 30) were recruited from a nonprofit cancer organization. Data were collected via in-person interviews. Interviews were transcribed and translated from Spanish to English. Data were uploaded into NVivo 12 and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
A common theme for facilitators and barriers for ACP was safeguarding family. Additional facilitators included (1) Desire for honoring end-of-life (EoL) care wishes and (2) experience with EoL care decision making. Additional barriers include (1) Family's reluctance to participate in EoL communication and (2) Patient–clinicians’ lack of EoL communication. Practice suggestions include (1) Death education and support for family, (2) ACP education, and (3) Dialogue vs. documentation.
Significance of results
ACP functions not only as a decisional tool; its utility reflects complex dynamics in personal, social, and cultural domains. ACP approaches with this underserved population must consider family relationships as well as cultural implications, including language barriers.
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12
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Lee KT, Zale AD, Ibe CA, Johnston FM. Patient Navigator and Community Health Worker Attitudes Toward End-of-Life Care. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1714-1720. [PMID: 34403597 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There are racial/ethnic disparities in hospice use and end-of-life (EOL) care outcomes in the United States. Although the use of community health workers (CHWs) and patient navigators (PNs) has been suggested as a means of reducing them, CHW/PNs' attitudes toward a palliative care philosophy remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine how personal attributes affect a CHW/PN's attitude toward EOL care. Methods: CHWs/PNs were recruited from two state-wide organizations and invited to complete an online survey. We collected information on demographics, attitudes toward the palliative care philosophy, and comfort with caring for patients at the EOL. Results: Of the 70 CHWs/PNs who responded to the survey, 82.5% identified as female, 56.4% identified as black, and 56.2% had a four-year college degree or higher. The mean score on a validated scale to assess attitudes toward EOL care was 33.5 (SD = 4.9; possible range, 8-40). Eighty percent strongly agreed or agreed with being open to discussing death with a dying patient. Higher self-efficacy scores were associated with more favorable attitudes toward hospice (r = 0.306, p = 0.016). Conclusions: CHWs/PNs have an overall favorable attitude toward the palliative care philosophy and may be inclined to providing EOL care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley T Lee
- Moffitt Cancer Center, Departments of Breast Oncology and Health Outcomes and Behavior, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Department of Oncology, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew D Zale
- Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chidinma A Ibe
- Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Fabian M Johnston
- Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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13
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Eneslätt M, Helgesson G, Tishelman C. Dissemination, use, and impact of a community-based, conversational advance care planning intervention: ripple effects of the Swedish DöBra cards. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2021; 15:26323524211032983. [PMID: 34409297 PMCID: PMC8365019 DOI: 10.1177/26323524211032983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION & AIM Despite increasing interest in community-based advance care planning interventions, few studies investigate the societal impact of such initiatives. The DöBra cards, a Swedish adaptation of the GoWish cards, were first used for advance care planning conversations in a participatory action research project and later, due to popular demand, made available for purchase by the general public. We explore how the DöBra cards were disseminated and used publicly, to understand their impact in the community. METHODS We used Ripple Effects Mapping to follow three dissemination ripples, based on interviews with 20 participants, analyzed with directed content analysis. FINDINGS Key factors influencing dissemination of the DöBra cards included 'champions' with a mandate within their context or organization, policy documents including use of the cards, media coverage, and presentations of the cards in various settings. The DöBra cards were adapted for use individually and in groups in different private, professional, and organizational settings. Perceived benefits of the cards included acting as an icebreaker in initiating end-of-life conversations and having preformulated statements to reflect upon. Other positive experiences included discussions on different interpretations of card statements, thus opening new perspectives regarding end-of-life. The DöBra cards functioned both as means to raise end-of-life issues in different contexts, and as an end in themselves, for example, by facilitating advance care planning conversations for those with serious disease. Impact also included personal development and strengthening of private and professional relationships, with potential to affect end-of-life care. CONCLUSION The broad dissemination of the DöBra cards influenced capacity-building in dealing with end-of-life issues in communities, as the topic of dying and death was brought to agendas in new contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Eneslätt
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, Luleå, Sweden
| | - Gert Helgesson
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carol Tishelman
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Stockholm Health Care Services (SLSO), Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden; School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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14
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O'Mahony S, Kittelson S, Barker PC, Delgado Guay MO, Yao Y, Handzo GF, Chochinov HM, Fitchett G, Emanuel LL, Wilkie DJ. Association of Race with End-of-Life Treatment Preferences in Older Adults with Cancer Receiving Outpatient Palliative Care. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1174-1182. [PMID: 33760658 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: End-of-life discussions and documentation of preferences are especially important for older cancer patients who are at high risk of morbidity and mortality. Objective: To evaluate influence of demographic factors such as religiosity, education, income, race, and ethnicity on treatment preferences for end-of-life care. Methods: A retrospective observational study was performed on baseline data from a multisite randomized clinical trial of Dignity Therapy in 308 older cancer patients who were receiving outpatient palliative care (PC). Interviews addressed end-of-life treatment preferences, religion, religiosity and spirituality, and awareness of prognosis. End-of-life treatment preferences for care were examined, including preferences for general treatment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and mechanical ventilation (MV). Bivariate associations and multiple logistic regression analysis of treatment preferences with demographic and other baseline variables were conducted. Results: Our regression models demonstrated that race was a significant predictor for CPR preference and preferences for MV, although not for general treatment goals. Minority patients were more likely to want CPR and MV than whites. Men were more likely to opt for MV, although not for CPR or overall aggressive treatment, than women. Higher level of education was a significant predictor for preferences for less aggressive care at the end-of-life but not for CPR or MV. Higher level of terminal illness awareness was also a significant predictor for preferences for CPR, but not MV or aggressive care at the end-of-life. Discussion: Race was significantly associated with all three markers for aggressive care in bivariate analysis and with two out of three markers in multiple regression analysis, with minorities preferring aggressive care and whites preferring less aggressive care. Contrary to our hypothesis, income was not significantly associated with treatment preferences, whereas religion was significantly associated with all markers for aggressive care in bivariate models, but not in multiple regression models. Clinical Trial Registration Number NCT03209440.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean O'Mahony
- Department of Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sheri Kittelson
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Paige C Barker
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Marvin O Delgado Guay
- Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yingwei Yao
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - George F Handzo
- CSSBB Health Care Chaplaincy Network, New York, New York, USA
| | - Harvey M Chochinov
- Department of Psychiatry, FRSC University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - George Fitchett
- Department of Medicine, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Linda L Emanuel
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Diana J Wilkie
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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15
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Johnson JC, Hayden T, Taylor LA, Gilbert A, Mitchell MPH. LIGHT: A Church-Based Curriculum for Training African American Lay Health Workers to Support Advance Care Planning and End-of-Life Decision-Making. Health Equity 2020; 4:533-541. [PMID: 34095700 PMCID: PMC8175257 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2020.0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: African Americans with life-limiting illnesses experience significant health inequities. Lay health workers (LHWs) may help overcome existing challenges of communicating with African Americans about advance care planning (ACP) and end-of-life decision-making. Church-based LHWs have some advantages over other LHWs but no curriculum exists to fully prepare them. This article describes the development, content, format, and implementation of a curriculum designed to meet this need. Methods: We created a church-based curriculum to train African American, LHWs as communications-facilitators who can support persons with life-limiting illnesses, not only with ACP but also with issues that arise as illnesses progress. Learners are church members whom we call comfort care supporters. The curriculum organizes the LHW interactions with clients by the mnemonic LIGHT: Listening, Identifying, Guiding, Helping, and Translating. Results: The final curriculum consists of three parts: (1) a 26-h classroom component delivered in nine modules organized around eight themes: meaning and prognosis of a life-limiting illness, spirituality and the meaning of death, understanding the dying process, major decisions and choices, goals of care, end-of-life services, and resources, intrafamily communication, and role and activities of the LHW; (2) a visit component; and (3) experiential, case-based discussions during monthly meetings. Conclusions: LHWs may improve quality of care and thus reduce health inequities at the end-of-life. Preparing LHWs for conversations about ACP is necessary but insufficient. This curriculum also prepares LHWs to attend to the spiritual needs of clients and to support clients with their other needs as their illness progresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry C Johnson
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tara Hayden
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lynne Allen Taylor
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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