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Ohinata H, Aoyama M, Hiratsuka Y, Mori M, Kikuchi A, Tsukuura H, Matsuda Y, Suzuki K, Kohara H, Maeda I, Morita T, Miyashita M. Symptoms, performance status and phase of illness in advanced cancer: multicentre cross-sectional study of palliative care unit admissions. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 13:e1174-e1180. [PMID: 36302613 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-003806] [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] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To clarify the relationship between Phase of Illness at the time of admission to palliative care units and symptoms of patients with advanced cancer. METHODS This study was a secondary analysis of the East Asian collaborative cross-cultural Study to Elucidate the Dying process. Palliative physicians recorded data, including Phase of Illness, physical function and the Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale. We used multinomial logistic regression to analyse ORs for factors associated with Phase of Illness. Twenty-three palliative care units in Japan participated from January 2017 to September 2018. RESULTS In total, 1894 patients were analysed-50.9% were male, mean age was 72.4 (SD±12.3) years, and Phase of Illness at the time of admission to the palliative care unit comprised 177 (8.9%) stable, 579 (29.2%) unstable, 921 (46.4%) deteriorating and 217 (10.9%) terminal phases. Symptoms were most distressing in the terminal phase for all items, followed by deteriorating, unstable and stable (p<0.001). The stable phase had lower association with shortness of breath (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.94) and felt at peace (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.90) than the unstable phase. In the deteriorating phase, weakness or lack of energy (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.40) were higher, while drowsiness (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.97) and felt at peace (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.94) were significantly lower. CONCLUSION Our study is reflective of the situation in palliative care units in Japan. Future studies should consider the differences in patients' medical conditions and routinely investigate patients' Phase of Illness and symptoms. TRIAL REGISTRARION NUMBER UMIN000025457.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Ohinata
- Department of Palliative Nursing, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Nursing, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita, Japan
| | - Maho Aoyama
- Department of Palliative Nursing, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yusuke Hiratsuka
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Takeda General Hospital, Aizuwakamatsu, Japan
| | - Masanori Mori
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Seirei Mikatahara Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Ayako Kikuchi
- Department of Oncology and Palliative Medicine, Mitsubishi Kyoto Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Yosuke Matsuda
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tokyo Kyosai Hospital, Meguro-ku, Japan
| | - Kozue Suzuki
- Department of Palliative Care, Tokyo Metropolitan Cancer and Infectious Diseases Center Komagome Hospital, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kohara
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hatsukaichi Memorial Hospital, Hatsukaichi, Japan
| | - Isseki Maeda
- Department of Palliative Care, Senri Chuo Hospital, Toyonaka, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Morita
- Department of Palliative and Supportive Care, Seirei Mikatahara Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Miyashita
- Department of Palliative Nursing, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Reid E, Lukoma M, Ho D, Bagasha P, Leng M, Namukwaya L. Palliative care needs and barriers in an urban Ugandan Emergency Department: A mixed-methods survey of emergency healthcare workers and patients. Afr J Emerg Med 2023; 13:339-344. [PMID: 38162896 PMCID: PMC10757186 DOI: 10.1016/j.afjem.2023.11.005] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative Care offers patient-centered, symptom-focused relief for patients with incurable disease, and early integration of palliative care ensures quality of life and death while reducing medical impoverishment. The Emergency Department is an ideal yet understudied, under-utilized location to initiate palliative care. Objective To evaluate the palliative care needs of patients with incurable disease and perceived barriers amongst healthcare providers in the Emergency Department of Kiruddu National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. Methods A mixed methods survey of Emergency Department healthcare workers and patients was conducted. A crosse sectional survey of ninety-nine patients was conducted using the integrated Palliative Care Outcome Scale (IPOS). Eleven interviews were conducted with healthcare workers at Kiruddu Hospital, identified by purposive sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze quantitative data.. Grounded theory approach was used to construct the in depth interview questions, code and analyze qualitative results and collapse these results into final themes. Results The most common diagnoses were HIV/HIV-TB (32 %), heart disease (18 %), and sickle cell disease (14 %). The prevalence of unmet palliative care needs was substantial: more that 70 % of patients reported untreated symptoms e.g., pain, fatigue, difficulty breathing. Seventy-seven percent of the population reported severe or overwhelming pain. The main barriers to provision of palliative care in the Emergency Department as identified by healthcare workers were: (1) lack of adequate training in palliative care; (2) Challenges due to patient volume and understaffing; (3) the misconception that palliative care is associated with pain management alone; (4) Financial constraints as the greatest challenge faced by patients with incurable disease. Conclusions We report a high prevalence of unmet palliative care needs among patients in this urban Ugandan Emergency Department, and important barriers reported by emergency healthcare providers. Identification of these barriers offers opportunities to overcome them including harnessing novel mHealth interventions such as clinical support apps or telehealth palliative care consultants. Integration of palliative care in this setting would improve the care of vulnerable patients, provide healthcare workers with an additional care modality while likely adding value to the health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Reid
- Division of Global Health & International Emergency Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, USA
| | - Michael Lukoma
- Mulago National Referral Hospital, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dao Ho
- Memorial Sloane Kettering Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Peace Bagasha
- Makerere Palliative Care Unit, Mulago Hospital, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mhoira Leng
- Makerere Palliative Care Unit, Mulago Hospital, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Cairdeas International Palliative Care Trust, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Liz Namukwaya
- Makerere Palliative Care Unit, Mulago Hospital, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Goni-Fuste B, Pergolizzi D, Monforte-Royo C, Alonso-Babarro A, Belar A, Crespo I, Güell E, Julià-Torras J, Moreno-Alonso D, Nabal Vicuña M, Pascual A, Porta-Sales J, Rocafort J, Rodríguez-Prat A, Rodríguez D, Sala C, Serrano-Bermúdez G, Serna J, Balaguer A. Development of a Guide to Multidimensional Needs Assessment in the Palliative Care Initial Encounter (MAP). J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 66:361-369.e6. [PMID: 37468050 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Ensuring patient-centered palliative care requires a comprehensive assessment of needs beginning in the initial encounter. However, there is no generally accepted guide for carrying out this multidimensional needs assessment as a first step in palliative intervention. OBJECTIVES To develop an expert panel-endorsed interview guide that would enable proactive and systematic Multidimensional needs Assessment in the Palliative care initial encounter (MAP). METHODS A preliminary version of the MAP guide was drafted based on a published literature review, published semistructured interviews with 20 patients, 20 family carers, and 20 palliative care professionals, and a nominal group process with palliative care professionals and a representative of the national patient's association. Consensus regarding its content was obtained through a modified Delphi process involving a panel of palliative care physicians from across Spain. RESULTS The published systematic literature review and qualitative study resulted in the identification of 55 needs, which were sorted and grouped by the nominal group. Following the Delphi process, the list of needs was reduced to 47, linked to six domains: Clinical history and medical conditions (n = 8), Physical symptoms (n = 17), Functional and cognitive status (n = 4), Psycho-emotional symptoms (n = 5), Social issues (n = 8), and Spiritual and existential concerns (n = 5). CONCLUSION MAP is an expert panel-endorsed semi-structured clinical interview guide for the comprehensive, systematic, and proactive initial assessment to efficiently assess multiple domains while adjusting to the needs of each patient. A future study will assess the feasibility of using the MAP guide within the timeframe of the palliative care initial encounter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Goni-Fuste
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine and Health Sciences (B.G-F., C.M-R.), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Denise Pergolizzi
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences (D.P., J.J-T., D.M-A., J.P-S., A.B.), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Cristina Monforte-Royo
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine and Health Sciences (B.G-F., C.M-R.), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés (Barcelona), Spain.
| | | | - Alazne Belar
- Instituto Cultura y Sociedad (A.B.), Universidad de Navarra, IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Iris Crespo
- Department of Basic Sciences (I.C.), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ernest Güell
- Hospital Universitari Sant Pau (E.G., A.P.), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joaquim Julià-Torras
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences (D.P., J.J-T., D.M-A., J.P-S., A.B.), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés (Barcelona), Spain; Department of Palliative Care (J.J-T.), Institut Català d'Oncologia Badalona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Deborah Moreno-Alonso
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences (D.P., J.J-T., D.M-A., J.P-S., A.B.), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés (Barcelona), Spain; Institut Català d'Oncologia L'Hospitalet (D.M-A., G.S-B.), L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Nabal Vicuña
- Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova (M.N.V.), Lleida, Spain; Faculty of Medicine (M.N.V.), Universidad de Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Antonio Pascual
- Hospital Universitari Sant Pau (E.G., A.P.), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Porta-Sales
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences (D.P., J.J-T., D.M-A., J.P-S., A.B.), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Javier Rocafort
- Fundación Vianorte-Laguna (J.R.), Madrid, Spain; School of Medicine (J.R.), Francisco de Vitoria University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrea Rodríguez-Prat
- Department of Humanities (A.R-P.), School of Humanities, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Carme Sala
- Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa (C.S.), Terrassa, Spain
| | - Gala Serrano-Bermúdez
- Institut Català d'Oncologia L'Hospitalet (D.M-A., G.S-B.), L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Serna
- Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron (J.S.), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Albert Balaguer
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences (D.P., J.J-T., D.M-A., J.P-S., A.B.), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Sant Cugat del Vallés (Barcelona), Spain
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Grądalski T, Kochan K. Quality of referrals to specialist palliative care and remote patient triage - a cross-sectional study. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:551. [PMID: 37658942 PMCID: PMC10474992 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08025-6] [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] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Choosing the optimal moment for admission to palliative care remains a serious challenge, as it requires a systematic identification of persons with supportive care needs. Despite the screening tools available for referring physicians, revealing the essential information for preliminary admission triage is crucial for an undisturbed qualification process. The study was aimed at analysing the eligibility criteria for specialist palliative care disclosed within provided referrals, expanded when necessary by documentation and/or interview. METHODS Referral forms with the documentation of 300 patients consecutively referred to the non-profit in-patient ward and home-care team in Poland were analysed in light of prognosis, phase of the disease and supportive needs. RESULTS Half of the referrals had the sufficient information to make a justified preliminary qualification based solely on the delivered documentation. The majority lacked performance status or expected prognosis. Where some information was revealed, two-thirds were in a progressing phase of the disease, with a within-weeks life prognosis. In 53.7%, no particular reason for admission was given. Social problems were signalled as the only reason for the admission in 7.7%. Twenty-eight percent were labelled as "urgent"; however, 52.4% of them were triaged as "stable" or disqualified. Patients referred to a hospice ward received complete referral forms more often, containing all necessary information. CONCLUSIONS General physicians need practical tips to facilitate timely referrals and unburden the overloaded specialist palliative care. Dedicated referral forms extended by a checklist of typical patients' concerns should be disseminated for better use of these resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Grądalski
- Chair of Palliative Medicine, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Kraków, Poland.
- St. Lazarus Hospice, Fatimska 17, 31-831, Kraków, Poland.
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Haraldsdottir E, Lloyd A, Bijak M, Milton L, Finucane AM. Inpatient hospice admissions. Who is admitted and why: a mixed-method prospective study. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2023; 17:26323524231182724. [PMID: 37440785 PMCID: PMC10333996 DOI: 10.1177/26323524231182724] [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: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Over the next two decades, the numbers of people who will need palliative care in the United Kingdom and Ireland is projected to increase. Hospices play a vital role supporting people who require specialist palliative care input through community-based and inpatient palliative care services. Evidence is needed to understand the role of these different services to inform future service development. Objectives To describe the reasons for admission, and outcomes at the end of the stay, for patients admitted to two hospice inpatient units (IPUs). Design This was a mixed-methods study using a convergent, parallel mixed-methods design. Methods We reviewed the case notes of all patients admitted to two hospice inpatient units from July to November 2019; conducted semi-structured interviews with patients and families; as well as brief structured interviews with inpatient unit staff. Results Two hundred fifty-nine patients were admitted to a hospice IPU, accounting for 276 admissions in total. Overall, 53% were female; median age was 71 years (range: 26-95 years). Most patients (95%) were White British or Scottish, and 95% had a cancer diagnosis. Most patients were admitted from the community, under one-third were admitted from hospital. Most (85%) had previous palliative care involvement. Nearly, half had district nurse support (48%). Worry and anxiety was frequently reported as a reason for admission, alongside physical concerns. Median length of stay was 12 days, and 68% died during their stay. Hospice was recorded as the preferred place of care for 56% of those who died there. Conclusions Sustained efforts to promote the hospice as place of care for people with conditions other than cancer are needed alongside greater clarity regarding of the role of the hospice IPU, and who would benefit most from IPU support.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Anne M. Finucane
- Marie Curie Hospice, Edinburgh, UK; University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Burke S, Hopkins N, Divine A, Ebenso B, Allsop M. Physical activity service provision in hospice care: A national mixed-methods study. Palliat Support Care 2023:1-9. [PMID: 37365803 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523000822] [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: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity (PA) interventions help people with advanced incurable diseases to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life. However, little is known about the extent to which PA is currently delivered in hospice care in England. OBJECTIVES To determine the extent of and intervention features of PA service provision in hospice care in England alongside barriers and facilitators to their delivery. METHODS An embedded mixed-methods design using (1) a nationwide online survey of 70 adult hospices in England and (2) focus groups and individual interviews with health professionals from 18 hospices. Analysis of the data involved applying descriptive statistics to the numeric items and thematic analysis to the open-ended questions. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analyzed separately. RESULTS The majority of responding hospices (n = 47/70, 67%) promoted PA in routine care. Sessions were most often delivered by a physiotherapist (n = 40/47, 85%) using a personalized approach (n = 41/47, 87%) and included resistance/thera bands, Tai Chi/Chi Qong, circuit exercises, and yoga. The following qualitative findings were revealed: (1) variation among hospices in their capacity to deliver PA, (2) a desire to embed a hospice culture of PA, and (3) a need for an organizational commitment to PA service provision. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS While many hospices in England deliver PA, there is considerable variation in its delivery across sites. Funding and policy action may be needed to support hospices to initiate or scale up services and address inequity in access to high-quality interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaunna Burke
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Natalie Hopkins
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Alison Divine
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Bassey Ebenso
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Matthew Allsop
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Yang Y, Cui M, Zhao X, Wang S, Wang Y, Wang X. Association of pain management and positive expectations with psychological distress and spiritual well‑being among terminally ill cancer patients admitted to a palliative care unit. BMC Nurs 2023; 22:96. [PMID: 37016385 PMCID: PMC10071468 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-023-01259-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although palliation of psycho-spiritual distress is of great importance in terminally ill cancer patients, there is a little information about screening patients who benefit from palliative care and identifying the cancer care targets. This study explored the relationship of pain management and positive expectations with depression, anxiety and spiritual well-being (SWB) in terminal cancer patients admitted to a palliative care unit. METHODS Eighty-four terminal cancer inpatients were recruited from the Hospice Ward, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University. Optimism and general self-efficacy (GSE) were evaluated at admission. Patients completed self-report questionnaires on SWB, depression, anxiety and pain both on admission and one week later. The repeated designed analysis of variance was used to explore the correlates of depression, anxiety and SWB (meaning, peace, faith). RESULTS In our sample, only cancer pain diminished significantly one week later. For depression (p = 0.041) and faith (p = 0.013), there was a significant pain group (relieved vs. not relieved) × time interaction effect, such that those with satisfied pain control experienced the improved psycho-spiritual outcomes at 1 week. The relationship between positive expectations, peace and faith was also statistically significant, indicating that the improvement of peace or faith was significant in the low group of optimism and GSE. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicated that pain management lied at the center of depression and SWB, meaning that effective pain management may reduce depression, and improve SWB among terminal cancer patients. Moreover, positive expectations, especially for optimism, may be the new target for SWB-related intervention research. Palliative care nurse should require the identification of terminal cancer patients who may more benefit from short-term palliative care, and target them with effective cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilong Yang
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Meng Cui
- Hospice Ward, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Xinxin Zhao
- Hospice Ward, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Simeng Wang
- Institute for International Health Professions Education and Research, China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China
| | - Yumei Wang
- Hospice Ward, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, P.R. China.
| | - Xiaohe Wang
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, P.R. China.
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French M, Keegan T, Preston N. Facilitating equitable access to hospice care in socially deprived areas: A mixed methods multiple case study. Palliat Med 2022; 37:508-519. [PMID: 36380483 PMCID: PMC10074748 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221133977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is uncertainty about the factors influencing inequities in access to palliative care in socially deprived areas, including the role of service models and professional perceptions. AIM To explore the relationship between social deprivation and access to hospice care, including factors influencing access and professional experiences of providing care. DESIGN A mixed-methods multiple case study approach was used. Hospice referrals data were analysed using generalised linear mixed models and other regression analyses. Qualitative interviews with healthcare professionals were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings from different areas (cases) were compared in a cross-case analysis. SETTING The study took place in North West England, using data from three hospices (8699 hospice patients) and interviews with 42 healthcare professionals. RESULTS Social deprivation was not statistically significantly, or consistently, associated with hospice referrals in the three cases (Case 1, Incidence Rate Ratio 1.04, p = 0.75; Case 2, Incidence Rate Ratio 1.09, p = 0.15, Case 3, Incidence Rate Ratio 0.88, p = 0.35). Hospice data and interviews suggest the model of hospice care, including working relationship with hospitals, and the local nature of social deprivation influenced access. Circumstances associated with social deprivation can conflict with professional expectations within palliative care. CONCLUSION Hospice care in the UK can be organised in ways that facilitate referrals of patients from socially deprived areas, although uncertainty about what constitutes need limits conclusions about equity. Grounding professional narratives around expectations, responsibility, and choice in frameworks that recognise the sociostructural influences on end-of-life circumstances may help to foster more equitable palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddy French
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, UK
| | | | - Nancy Preston
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, UK
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Wakefield D. If not home, where? Implementing an innovative model of care as an alternative place of care & death for patients living in an area of high socio-economic deprivation. Short-report on opening a long-term palliative care unit. Palliat Med 2022; 37:652-656. [PMID: 36337044 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221133984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare professionals and policy makers often view home as the most appropriate place of care and death for patients. However, this makes assumptions about what home is like and does not account for high levels of complexity experienced by patients from areas of high socioeconomic deprivation. Alternative models of care should be explored to provide equitable care for this patient group. AIMS To describe the development of a new innovative model of care, a long-term palliative care unit. DESIGN Description of the model, with secondary analysis of retrospective routinely gathered data. SETTING Hartlepool in North-East England, includes some of the most socio-economically deprived areas in England, with associated high-levels of multimorbidity. In 2014, the eight-bedded hospice, opened an additional 10-bedded long-term unit. RESULTS Within 7 years, 199 patients were admitted to the long-term unit. With 98% remained there until death. All patients were offered a full holistic assessment and advance care planning, with 24/7 access to specialist palliative care support. None were transferred to hospital. In general, patients from socio-economically deprived areas are less likely to access hospice care, however, 27% of all admissions to the long-term unit were from areas in the 10% most deprived in England (with 41% admitted from areas in the poorest quintile). CONCLUSION We suggest that this model has been a valuable asset in providing an alternative place to home, enabling patients to receive high-quality care towards end of life. Further research is needed to hear directly from patients about their experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna Wakefield
- Consultant in Palliative Medicine, Alice House Hospice, Hartlepool, UK.,Specialist Palliative Care Team, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-On-Tees, UK.,Associate Researcher, Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Qureshi SP, Jones D, Dewar A. Physicians' Conceptions of the Dying Patient: Scoping Review and Qualitative Content Analysis of the United Kingdom Medical Literature. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:1881-1896. [PMID: 35981561 PMCID: PMC9511242 DOI: 10.1177/10497323221119939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Most people in high income countries experience dying while receiving healthcare, yet dying has no clear beginning, and contexts influence how dying is conceptualised. This study investigates how UK physicians conceptualise the dying patient. We employed Scoping Study Methodology to obtain medical literature from 2006-2021, and Qualitative Content Analysis to analyse stated and implied meanings of language used, informed by social-materialism. Our findings indicate physicians do not conceive a dichotomous distinction between dying and not dying, but construct conceptions of the dying patient in subjective ways linked to their practice. We argue that the focus of future research should be on exploring practice-based challenges in the workplace to understanding patient dying. Furthermore, pre-Covid-19 literature related dying to chronic illness, but analysis of literature published since the pandemic generated conceptions of dying from acute illness. Researchers should note the ongoing effects of Covid-19 on societal and medical awareness of dying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Peter Qureshi
- Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Derek Jones
- Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Avril Dewar
- Edinburgh Medical School, The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh, UK
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Weaver MS, Shostrom VK, Kaye EC, Keegan A, Lindley LC. Palliative Care Programs in Children's Hospitals. Pediatrics 2022; 150:189474. [PMID: 36093621 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-057872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNG AND OBJECTIVES This study determined the prevalence of PPC programs in the United States and compared the environment of children's hospitals with and without PPC programs. METHODS Analyses of the multicenter Children's Hospital Association Annual Benchmark Report 2020 survey for prevalence of PPC programs and association with operational, missional, educational, and financial domains. RESULTS Two hundred thirty-one hospitals received Annual Benchmark Report survey requests with 148 submitted (64% response rate) inclusive of 50 states. One hundred nineteen (80%) reported having a PPC program and 29 (20%) reported not having a PPC program. Free-standing children's hospitals (n = 42 of 148, 28%) were more likely to report the presence of PPC (P = .004). For settings with PPC programs, the median number of staffed beds was 185 (25th quartile 119, 75th quartile 303) compared with 49 median number of staffed beds for those without PPC (25th quartile 30, 75th quartile 81). Facilities with higher ratio of trauma, intensive care, or acuity level were more likely to offer PPC. Although palliative care was associated with hospice (P <.001) and respite (P = .0098), over half of facilities reported not having access to hospice for children (n = 82 of 148, 55%) and 79% reported not having access to respite care (n = 117 of 148). CONCLUSIONS PPC, hospice, and respite services remain unrealized for many children and families in the United States. Programmatic focus and advocacy efforts must emphasize creation and sustainability of quality PPC programs in smaller, lower resourced hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghann S Weaver
- Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.,National Center for Ethics in Healthcare, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Valerie K Shostrom
- College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Erica C Kaye
- St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Amy Keegan
- Children's Hospital Association, Lenexa, Kansas
| | - Lisa C Lindley
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee
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12
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McGhee WRG, Dempster M, Graham-Wisener L. The role of companion animals in advanced cancer: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:160. [PMID: 36114574 PMCID: PMC9479232 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01050-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is evidence that a companion animal (CA) or ‘pet’ can be helpful during the management of chronic illness. However, the psychological effects of CAs and the mechanism by which they can be beneficial to individuals managing life-limiting conditions is unknown. This study addresses this gap and provides the first examination of the lived experience of CAs among community-dwelling adults with advanced cancer. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interview study consisting of a homogenous sample of 6 individuals with an advanced cancer diagnosis, who either self-selected to the study or were recruited through a regional charity that supports palliative and end-of-life care patients in maintaining a connection with their CA. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results Four superordinate themes occurred in the data: a protective relationship, positive behavioural change, facilitating meaningful social connections and increased loss-orientated cognitions. The findings suggest that CAs offer de-arousing and socially protective supports that mitigate physical and psychological sequalae experienced by people with advanced cancer. However, as their illness progresses, individuals may also experience thoughts related to not meeting their CA’s needs currently and in the future. Conclusions CAs provide emotional, practical, and social supports to individuals diagnosed with advanced cancer that can improve individual psychological wellbeing. Consequently, it is important that CAs are considered in advance care planning processes and that services are available to mitigate any negative effects of CA ownership, in order to maximise the benefits CAs confer to individuals managing advanced cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-022-01050-y.
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13
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Collins A, Sundararajan V, Le B, Mileshkin L, Hanson S, Emery J, Philip J. The feasibility of triggers for the integration of Standardised, Early Palliative (STEP) Care in advanced cancer: A phase II trial. Front Oncol 2022; 12:991843. [PMID: 36185312 PMCID: PMC9520487 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.991843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While multiple clinical trials have demonstrated benefits of early palliative care for people with cancer, access to these services is frequently very late if at all. Establishing evidence-based, disease-specific ‘triggers’ or times for the routine integration of early palliative care may address this evidence-practice gap. Aim To test the feasibility of using defined triggers for the integration of standardised, early palliative (STEP) care across three advanced cancers. Method Phase II, multi-site, open-label, parallel-arm, randomised trial of usual best practice cancer care +/- STEP Care conducted in four metropolitan tertiary cancer services in Melbourne, Australia in patients with advanced breast, prostate and brain cancer. The primary outcome was the feasibility of using triggers for times of integration of STEP Care, defined as enrolment of at least 30 patients per cancer in 24 months. Triggers were based on hospital admission with metastatic disease (for breast and prostate cancer), or development of disease recurrence (for brain tumour cohort). A mixed method study design was employed to understand issues of feasibility and acceptability underpinning trigger points. Results The triggers underpinning times for the integration of STEP care were shown to be feasible for brain but not breast or prostate cancers, with enrolment of 49, 6 and 10 patients across the three disease groups respectively. The varied feasibility across these cancer groups suggested some important characteristics of triggers which may aid their utility in future work. Conclusions Achieving the implementation of early palliative care as a standardized component of quality care for all oncology patients will require further attention to defining triggers. Triggers which are 1) linked to objective points within the illness course (not dependent on recognition by individual clinicians), 2) Identifiable and visible (heralded through established service-level activities) and 3) Not reliant upon additional screening measures may enhance their feasibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Collins
- Department of Medicine, St Vincent’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Anna Collins,
| | - Vijaya Sundararajan
- Department of Medicine, St Vincent’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Brian Le
- Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre & The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Linda Mileshkin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Jon Emery
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jennifer Philip
- Department of Medicine, St Vincent’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre & The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Palliative Care Service, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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14
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Weetman K, Dale J, Mitchell SJ, Ferguson C, Finucane AM, Buckle P, Arnold E, Clarke G, Karakitsiou DE, McConnell T, Sanyal N, Schuberth A, Tindle G, Perry R, Grewal B, Patynowska KA, MacArtney JI. Communication of palliative care needs in discharge letters from hospice providers to primary care: a multisite sequential explanatory mixed methods study. Palliat Care 2022; 21:155. [PMID: 36064662 PMCID: PMC9444706 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01038-8] [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: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The provision of palliative care is increasing, with many people dying in community-based settings. It is essential that communication is effective if and when patients transition from hospice to community palliative care. Past research has indicated that communication issues are prevalent during hospital discharges, but little is known about hospice discharges. Methods An explanatory sequential mixed methods study consisting of a retrospective review of hospice discharge letters, followed by hospice focus groups, to explore patterns in communication of palliative care needs of discharged patients and describe why these patients were being discharged. Discharge letters were extracted for key content information using a standardised form. Letters were then examined for language patterns using a linguistic methodology termed corpus linguistics. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the focus group transcripts. Findings were triangulated to develop an explanatory understanding of discharge communication from hospice care. Results We sampled 250 discharge letters from five UK hospices whereby patients had been discharged to primary care. Twenty-five staff took part in focus groups. The main reasons for discharge extracted from the letters were symptoms “managed/resolved” (75.2%), and/or the “patient wishes to die/for care at home” (37.2%). Most patients had some form of physical needs documented on the letters (98.4%) but spiritual needs were rarely documented (2.4%). Psychological/emotional needs and social needs were documented in 46.4 and 35.6% of letters respectively. There was sometimes ambiguity in “who” will be following up “what” in the discharge letters, and whether described patients’ needs were resolved or ongoing for managing in the community setting. The extent to which patients received a copy of their discharge letter varied. Focus groups conveyed a lack of consensus on what constitutes “complexity” and “complex pain”. Conclusions The content and structure of discharge letters varied between hospices, although generally focused on physical needs. Our study provides insights into patterns associated with those discharged from hospice, and how policy and guidance in this area may be improved, such as greater consistency of sharing letters with patients. A patient-centred set of hospice-specific discharge letter principles could help improve future practice. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-022-01038-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Weetman
- Interactive Studies Unit, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Birmingham Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK. .,Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.
| | - Jeremy Dale
- Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Claire Ferguson
- Marie Curie Hospice West Midlands, Solihull, West Midlands, UK
| | - Anne M Finucane
- Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,The University of Edinburgh School of Health in Social Science, Clinical Psychology, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Peter Buckle
- Marie Curie Research Voices Group, Marie Curie, England, London, UK
| | | | - Gemma Clarke
- Marie Curie Hospice Bradford, Bradford, UK.,University of Leeds, Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
| | | | - Tracey McConnell
- Marie Curie Hospice Belfast, Belfast, UK.,Queen's University Belfast School of Nursing and Midwifery, Belfast, UK
| | - Nikhil Sanyal
- Marie Curie Hospice West Midlands, Solihull, West Midlands, UK
| | | | - Georgia Tindle
- Marie Curie Hospice Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rachel Perry
- Marie Curie Hospice West Midlands, Solihull, West Midlands, UK
| | | | | | - John I MacArtney
- Unit of Academic Primary Care, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,Marie Curie Hospice West Midlands, Solihull, West Midlands, UK
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15
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Davies JM, Sleeman KE, Ramsenthaler C, Prentice W, Maddocks M, Murtagh FE. The association between socioeconomic position and the symptoms and concerns of hospital inpatients seen by specialist palliative care: Analysis of routinely collected patient data. Palliat Med 2022; 37:575-585. [PMID: 35949141 PMCID: PMC10074756 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221115331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding how socioeconomic position influences the symptoms and concerns of patients approaching the end of life is important for planning more equitable care. Data on this relationship is lacking, particularly for patients with non-cancer conditions. AIM To analyse the association between socioeconomic position and the symptoms and concerns of older adult patients seen by specialist palliative care. DESIGN Secondary analysis of cross-sectional, routinely collected electronic patient data. We used multivariable linear regression with robust standard errors, to predict scores on the three subscales of the Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale (IPOS; physical symptoms, emotional symptoms and communication and practical concerns) based on patient level of deprivation, measured using Index of Multiple Deprivation. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Consecutive inpatients aged 60 years and over, seen by specialist palliative care at two large teaching hospitals in London between 1st January 2016 and 31st December 2019. RESULTS Seven thousand eight hundred and sixty patients were included, 38.3% had cancer. After adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics, patients living in the most deprived areas had higher (worse) predicted mean scores on the communication and practical subscale than patients living in the least deprived areas, 5.38 (95% CI: 5.10, 5.65) compared to 4.82 (4.62, 5.02) respectively. This effect of deprivation diminished with increasing age. Deprivation was not associated with scores on the physical or emotional symptoms subscales. CONCLUSIONS Targetting resources to address practical and communication concerns could be a strategy to reduce inequalities. Further research in different hospitals and across different settings using patient centred outcome measures is needed to examine inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M Davies
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Katherine E Sleeman
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK.,King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Christina Ramsenthaler
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Winterthur, Switzerland.,Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Wendy Prentice
- King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Matthew Maddocks
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Fliss Em Murtagh
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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16
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Mo J, Vickerstaff V, Minton O, Tavabie S, Taubert M, Stone P, White N. How effective is virtual reality technology in palliative care? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Palliat Med 2022; 36:1047-1058. [PMID: 35635018 PMCID: PMC9248003 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221099584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of virtual reality for people living with a terminal illness is unclear. AIM To determine the feasibility and effectiveness of virtual reality use within a palliative care setting. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. PROSPERO (CRD42021240395). DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase, AMED, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 2021. Search terms included 'virtual reality' and 'palliative care'. Eligibility: (1) adult (>18 years old) with a terminal illness (2) at least one virtual reality session and (3) feasibility data and/or at least one patient outcome reported. The ROB-2 and ROBINS tools assessed risk of bias. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) tool assessed the quality of the evidence. Standardised mean differences (Hedges's g) were calculated from the pre- and post-data. A DerSimonian-Laird random effects model meta-analysis was conducted. RESULTS Eight studies were included, of which five were in the meta-analysis. All studies had at least some concern for risk of bias. Virtual reality statistically significantly improved pain (p = 0.0363), tiredness (p = 0.0030), drowsiness (p = 0.0051), shortness of breath (p = 0.0284), depression (p = 0.0091) and psychological well-being (p = 0.0201). The quality of the evidence was graded as very low due to small sample sizes, non-randomisation methods and a lack of a comparator arm. CONCLUSIONS Virtual reality in palliative care is feasible and acceptable. However, limited sample sizes and very low-quality studies mean that the efficacy of virtual reality needs further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiping Mo
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Victoria Vickerstaff
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, UCL Division of Psychiatry, London, UK.,Priment Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London (UCL), London, UK
| | - Ollie Minton
- Sussex Cancer Centre University Hospitals, Sussex, UK
| | | | - Mark Taubert
- Palliative Medicine, Velindre Cancer Centre, Cardiff, UK.,Palliative Care, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Patrick Stone
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, UCL Division of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Nicola White
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, UCL Division of Psychiatry, London, UK
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17
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Silvia T, Gianfranco M, Cristina A, Sara A, Carlo P, Giovanna A. Consultations’ demand for a hospital palliative care unit: how to increase appropriateness? Implementing and evaluating a multicomponent educational intervention aimed at increase palliative care complexity perception skill. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:90. [PMID: 35619110 PMCID: PMC9133822 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00968-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Planned, multidisciplinary teams’ discussions of cases are common in cancer care, but their impact on patients’ outcome is not always clear. Palliative care (PC) needs might emerge long before the last weeks of life. Many palliative care patients could be managed from the usual care staff, if appropriately trained; specialist palliative care should be provided to patients with more complex needs. Staff needs adequate training, so that only patients presenting a higher complexity are properly referred to the second level (“specialized”) PC services. In the considered hospital setting, “tumour boards” (multidisciplinary discussions) refer often to a low number of patients. Overall complexity of patients’ needs is hardly considered. Methods A mixed method pilot study with data triangulation of professionals’ interviews and an independently structured evaluation of complexity of referred patients, before and after the intervention, using the PALCOM instrument. We trained four teams of professionals to deliver first-level palliation and to refer patients with complex needs detected in multidisciplinary discussions. A multicomponent, first level PC educational intervention, including information technology’s adaptation, a training course, and bedside training was offered from the specialized PC Services, to all the HPs involved in multidisciplinary pancreas, lung, ovarian, and liver tumour boards. Results While the level of complexity of referred patients did not increase, trainees seemed to develop a better understanding of palliative care and a higher sensitivity to palliative needs. The number of referred patients increased, but patients’ complexity did not. Qualitative data showed that professionals seemed to be more aware of the complexity of PC needs. A “meaning shift” was perceived, specifically on the referral process (e.g., “when” and “for what” referring to specialist PC) and on the teams’ increased focus on patients’ needs. The training, positively received, was adapted to trainees’ needs and observations that led also to organizational modifications. Conclusions Our multicomponent intervention positively impacted the number of referrals but not the patients’ complexity (measured with the PALCOM instrument). Hospital staff does not easily recognize that patients may have PC needs significantly earlier than at the end of life. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12904-022-00968-7.
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18
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Benini F, Papadatou D, Bernadá M, Craig F, De Zen L, Downing J, Drake R, Friedrichsdorf S, Garros D, Giacomelli L, Lacerda A, Lazzarin P, Marceglia S, Marston J, Muckaden MA, Papa S, Parravicini E, Pellegatta F, Wolfe J. International Standards for Pediatric Palliative Care: From IMPaCCT to GO-PPaCS. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:e529-e543. [PMID: 35031506 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Since the publication of the IMPaCCT project in 2007, much effort has been made to develop new approaches to pediatric palliative care (PPC). Fifteen years later, it is time to redefine the standards in PPC. OBJECTIVES An international group of experts in PPC has revised the standards in PPC through the GO-PPaCS project (Global Overview - PPC Standards). The goal was to update the PPC standards considering the specificity of different settings, resources, and emerging challenges. The present document is intended to reach all people directly or indirectly involved in PPC. METHODS A literature review in MEDLINE was conducted to expand on the fundamental points and current standards on PPC and to cover an international setting. The literature search (updated on the 15th of April 2021) was carried out using different combinations of keywords and focusing on papers published in English over the past 5 years (2016-2020), but older articles were considered when relevant. The consensus on the fundamental points, standards of care and paper contents was reached by open discussion. RESULTS Fundamental points were defined regarding the definition of PPC, eligibility criteria and the magnitude of the need for PPC, while standards were redefined for the following six areas: 1) clinical, developmental, psychological, social, ethical and spiritual needs; 2) end-of-life care; 3) care models and settings of care; 4) PPC in humanitarian emergencies; 5) care tools; and 6) education and training for healthcare providers. CONCLUSION The present document, developed with the contribution of an international group of experts from different countries, experiences and models of care, provides fundamental points and standards for a wider implementation of PPC worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franca Benini
- Paediatric Palliative Care, Pain Service, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
| | - Danai Papadatou
- Professor of Clinical Psychology, Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Studies, Faculty of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Mercedes Bernadá
- Associated Professor of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Universidad de la República, Pereira Rossell Hospital Center, Pediatric Palliative Care Team Director, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Finella Craig
- Consultant in Paediatric Palliative Medicine at the Louis Dundas Centre, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Lucia De Zen
- Pediatric Palliative Care and Pain Service, Institute for Maternal and Child Health Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Julia Downing
- International Children's Palliative Care Network (ICPCN), Uganda/UK
| | - Ross Drake
- Pediatric Palliative Care and Pain Services, Starship Children's Health, Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Stefan Friedrichsdorf
- Professor in Pediatrics, Medical Director, Center of Pediatric Pain, Palliative and Integrative Medicine at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals in Oakland and San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Daniel Garros
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Critical Care, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Stollery Children's Hospital PICU, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Ana Lacerda
- Department of Pediatrics, Portuguese Institute of Oncology, Lisbon Centre, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pierina Lazzarin
- Paediatric Palliative Care, Pain Service, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Sara Marceglia
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Joan Marston
- Sunflower Children's Hospice, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Joanne Wolfe
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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19
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Guo P, Pinto C, Edwards B, Pask S, Firth A, O'Brien S, Murtagh FE. Experiences of transitioning between settings of care from the perspectives of patients with advanced illness receiving specialist palliative care and their family caregivers: A qualitative interview study. Palliat Med 2022; 36:124-134. [PMID: 34477022 PMCID: PMC8793309 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211043371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transitions between care settings (hospice, hospital and community) can be challenging for patients and family caregivers and are often an under-researched area of health care, including palliative care. AIM To explore the experience of transitions between care settings for those receiving specialist palliative care. DESIGN Qualitative study using thematic analysis. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adult patients (n = 15) and family caregivers (n = 11) receiving specialist palliative care, who had undergone at least two transitions. RESULTS Four themes were identified. (1) Uncertainty about the new care setting. Most participants reported that lack of information about the new setting of care, and difficulties with access and availability of care in the new setting, added to feelings of uncertainty. (2) Biographical disruption. The transition to the new setting often resulted in changes to sense of independence and identity, and maintaining normality was a way to cope with this. (3) Importance of continuity of care. Continuity of care had an impact on feelings of safety in the new setting and influenced decisions about the transition. (4) Need for emotional and practical support. Most participants expressed a greater need for emotional and practical support, when transitioning to a new setting. CONCLUSIONS Findings provide insights into how clinicians might better negotiate transitions for these patients and family caregivers, as well as improve patient outcomes. The complexity and diversity of transition experiences, particularly among patients and families from different ethnicities and cultural backgrounds, need to be further explored in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Guo
- School of Nursing, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Cathryn Pinto
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Beth Edwards
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sophie Pask
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Alice Firth
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Suzanne O'Brien
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Fliss Em Murtagh
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
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20
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de Nooijer K, Pivodic L, Van Den Noortgate N, Pype P, Evans C, Van den Block L. Timely short-term specialized palliative care service intervention for older people with frailty and their family carers in primary care: Development and modelling of the frailty+ intervention using theory of change. Palliat Med 2021; 35:1961-1974. [PMID: 34423701 PMCID: PMC8649418 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211040187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative care is advocated for older people with frailty and multimorbidity in the community. However, how to best deliver it is unclear. AIM To develop and model an intervention of short-term specialized palliative care that is initiated timely based on complex care needs and integrated with primary care for older people with frailty and their family, detailing the intervention components, outcomes and preconditions needed for implementation, using a novel theoretical approach. DESIGN Observational study informed by the UK MRC guidance for complex interventions integrated with a Theory of Change (i.e. hypothetical causal pathway to impact) approach. We synthesized evidence from a systematic review, semi-structured interviews, group discussions and Theory of Change workshops. SETTING Primary care in Flanders, Belgium. RESULTS We identified patient and family carer-related long-term outcomes and preconditions to achieve them for example, service providers are willing and able to deliver the intervention. The intervention components included implementation components, for example, training for service providers, and a core component, that is, provision of timely short-term specialized palliative care by a specialized palliative home care nurse. The latter includes: short-term service delivery; collaborative and integrative working within primary care; delivery of holistic needs- and capacity-based care; person-centred and family-focussed; and goal-oriented pro-active care. CONCLUSIONS The Theory of Change approach allowed us to identify multiple intervention components targeting different stakeholders to achieve the desired outcomes. It also facilitated a detailed description of the intervention which aims to increase replicability and effective comparisons with other interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim de Nooijer
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lara Pivodic
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nele Van Den Noortgate
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Geriatric Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter Pype
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Catherine Evans
- King's College London, Cicely Saunders Institute, London, UK.,Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton General Hospital, Brighton, UK
| | - Lieve Van den Block
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Yorganci E, Sampson EL, Gillam J, Aworinde J, Leniz J, Williamson LE, Cripps RL, Stewart R, Sleeman KE. Quality indicators for dementia and older people nearing the end of life: A systematic review. J Am Geriatr Soc 2021; 69:3650-3660. [PMID: 34331704 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.17387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robust quality indicators (QIs) are essential for monitoring and improving the quality of care and learning from good practice. We aimed to identify and assess QIs for the care of older people and people with dementia who are nearing the end of life and recommend QIs for use with routinely collected electronic data across care settings. METHODS A systematic review was conducted, including five databases and reference chaining. Studies describing the development of QIs for care of older people and those with dementia nearing the end of life were included. QIs were categorized as relating to processes or outcomes, and mapped against six care domains. The psychometric properties (acceptability, evidence base, definition, feasibility, reliability, and validity) of each QI were assessed; QIs were categorized as robust, moderate, or poor. RESULTS From 12,980 titles and abstracts screened, 37 papers and 976 QIs were included. Process and outcome QIs accounted for 780 (79.7%) and 196 (20.3%) of all QIs, respectively. Many of the QIs concerned physical aspects of care (n = 492, 50.4%), and very few concerned spiritual and cultural aspects of care (n = 19, 1.9%). Three hundred and fifteen (32.3%) QIs were robust and of those 220 were measurable using routinely collected electronic data. The final shortlist of 71 QIs came from seven studies. CONCLUSIONS Of the numerous QIs developed for care of older adults and those with dementia nearing the end of life, most had poor or moderate psychometric properties or were not designed for use with routinely collected electronic datasets. Infrastructure for data availability, combined with use of robust QIs, is important for enhancing understanding of care provided to this population, identifying unmet needs, and improving service provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Yorganci
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth L Sampson
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Barnet Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust Liaison Psychiatry Team, North Middlesex University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Juliet Gillam
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jesutofunmi Aworinde
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Javiera Leniz
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Lesley E Williamson
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rachel L Cripps
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Robert Stewart
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Katherine E Sleeman
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, UK
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22
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Rowley J, Richards N, Carduff E, Gott M. The impact of poverty and deprivation at the end of life: a critical review. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2021; 15:26323524211033873. [PMID: 34541536 PMCID: PMC8442481 DOI: 10.1177/26323524211033873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This critical review interrogates what we know about how poverty and deprivation impact people at the end of life and what more we need to uncover. While we know that people in economically resource-rich countries who experience poverty and deprivation over the life course are likely to die younger, with increased co-morbidities, palliative care researchers are beginning to establish a full picture of the disproportionate impact of poverty on how, when and where we die. This is something the Covid-19 pandemic has further illustrated. Our article uses a critical social science lens to investigate an eclectic range of literature addressing health inequities and is focused on poverty and deprivation at the end of life. Our aim was to see if we could shed new light on the myriad ways in which experiences of poverty shape the end of people's lives. We start by exploring the definitions and language of poverty while acknowledging the multiple intersecting identities that produce privilege. We then discuss poverty and deprivation as a context for the nature of palliative care need and overall end-of-life circumstances. In particular, we explore: total pain; choice at the end of life; access to palliative care; and family caregiving. Overall, we argue that in addressing the effects of poverty and deprivation on end-of-life experiences, there is a need to recognise not just socio-economic injustice but also cultural and symbolic injustice. Too often, a deficit-based approach is adopted which both 'Others' those living with poverty and renders invisible the strategies and resilience they develop to support themselves, their families and communities. We conclude with some recommendations for future research, highlighting in particular the need to amplify the voices of people with lived experience of poverty regarding palliative and end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Rowley
- End of Life Studies Group, School of
Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Naomi Richards
- End of Life Studies Group, School of
Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Merryn Gott
- Professor, Te Ārai Palliative Care and End of
Life Research Group, School of Nursing, The University of Auckland, Private
Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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23
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Finucane AM, Bone AE, Etkind S, Carr D, Meade R, Munoz-Arroyo R, Moine S, Iyayi-Igbinovia A, Evans CJ, Higginson IJ, Murray SA. How many people will need palliative care in Scotland by 2040? A mixed-method study of projected palliative care need and recommendations for service delivery. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e041317. [PMID: 33536318 PMCID: PMC7868264 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate future palliative care need and complexity of need in Scotland, and to identify priorities for future service delivery. DESIGN We estimated the prevalence of palliative care need by analysing the proportion of deaths from defined chronic progressive illnesses. We described linear projections up to 2040 using national death registry data and official mortality forecasts. An expert consultation and subsequent online consensus survey generated recommendations on meeting future palliative care need. SETTING Scotland, population of 5.4 million. PARTICIPANTS All decedents in Scotland over 11 years (2007 to 2017). The consultation had 34 participants; 24 completed the consensus survey. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES Estimates of past and future palliative care need in Scotland from 2007 up to 2040. Multimorbidity was operationalised as two or more registered causes of death from different disease groups (cancer, organ failure, dementia, other). Consultation and survey data were analysed descriptively. RESULTS We project that by 2040, the number of people requiring palliative care will increase by at least 14%; and by 20% if we factor in multimorbidity. The number of people dying from multiple diseases associated with different disease groups is projected to increase from 27% of all deaths in 2017 to 43% by 2040. To address increased need and complexity, experts prioritised sustained investment in a national digital platform, roll-out of integrated electronic health and social care records; and approaches that remain person-centred. CONCLUSIONS By 2040 more people in Scotland are projected to die with palliative care needs, and the complexity of need will increase markedly. Service delivery models must adapt to serve growing demand and complexity associated with dying from multiple diseases from different disease groups. We need sustained investment in secure, accessible, integrated and person-centred health and social care digital systems, to improve care coordination and optimise palliative care for people across care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Finucane
- Research, Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Primary Palliative Care Research Group, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anna E Bone
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Etkind
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Richard Meade
- Policy and Public Affairs, Marie Curie, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Sébastien Moine
- Primary Palliative Care Research Group, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Health Education, Université Paris, Paris, UK
| | | | - Catherine J Evans
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Scott A Murray
- Primary Palliative Care Research Group, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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