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Ito Süffert SC, Mantese CEA, Meira FRDC, Trindade KFRDO, Etges APBDS, Vargas Alves RJ, Bica CG. End-of-Life Costs in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024:10499091241285890. [PMID: 39313454 DOI: 10.1177/10499091241285890] [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: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Identify the costs of an oncology patient at the end of life. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted by screening Embase, PubMed and Lilacs databases, including all studies evaluating end-of-life care costs for cancer patients up to March 2024. The review writing followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Drummond checklist. The protocol is available at PROSPERO CRD42023403186. RESULTS A total of 733 studies were retrieved, and 43 were considered eligible. Among the studies analyzed, 41,86% included all types of neoplasms, 18.60% of lung neoplasm, All articles performed direct cost analysis, and 9.30% also performed indirect cost analysis. No study evaluated intangible costs, and most presented the macrocosting methodology from the payer's perspective. The articles included in this review presented significant heterogeneity related to populations, diagnoses, periods considered for evaluation of end-of-life care, and cost analyses. Most of the studies were from a payer perspective (74,41%) and based on macrocosting methodologies (81,39%), which limit the use of the information to evaluate variabilities in the consumption of resources. CONCLUSIONS Considering the complexity of end-of-life care and the need for consistent data on costs in this period, new studies, mainly in low- and middle-income countries with approaches to indirect and intangible costs, with a societal perspective, are important for public policies of health in accordance with the trend of transforming value-based care, allowing the health care system to create more value for patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya Camargo Ito Süffert
- Graduate Program of Pathology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Ana Paula Beck da Silva Etges
- Graduation Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- PEV Healthcare Consulting, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Rafael José Vargas Alves
- Hospital Santa Rita, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- National Institute for Health Technology Assessment-IATS/CNPq, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Claudia Giuliano Bica
- Graduate Program of Pathology, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil
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2
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Tian T, Guo J, Hu JL, Hu Y, Guo P, Yu XY. Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma and palliative care: a scoping review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 14:163-170. [PMID: 36396345 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-003798] [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: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have specific palliative care needs owing to the influence of the disease on abdominal pain, jaundice, bleeding, appetite, ascites, liver function and hepatic encephalopathy. This research would help develop care models and identify knowledge gaps in the field. AIMS To identify the palliative care needs and experiences of patients with advanced HCC. METHODS CINAHL, EMBASE and MEDLINE were used to search English literature from January 1998 to March 2022 for 'Palliative care' and 'Hepatocellular cancer' using precise inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS The retrieves identified 2710 records, including 33 studies used in our research. Two additional studies were grey items. Among 35 studies, 13 studies were performed in Asia, 11 studies in North America, 8 studies in Europe and 3 studies in Australia. Quantitative investigations were mostly descriptive or observational. Eight studies were conducted on a national scale, while two were in specific regions. 20 studies were conducted by a single institution. 22 studies focused only on patients, 2 on family caregivers and 2 on healthcare professionals. 2 more studies concentrated on patients and family caregivers, while 6 concentrated on patients and healthcare professionals. CONCLUSIONS This scoping study illustrates the complexity of advanced HCC treatment and challenges in modern healthcare systems. Formulating appropriate referral criteria, integrating and coordinating care, and assessing care contents are crucial. To enhance the treatment of patients with advanced HCC, it is important to understand the relationships between research and service design across teams, disciplines and care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Tian
- School of Nursing, Hunan University of Tradtional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ju Guo
- Graduate of School, GuangXi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Ju-Lan Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Ji'An, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yue Hu
- Department of Nursing, Chongqing City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Guo
- School of Nursing, Hunan University of Tradtional Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao-Yun Yu
- Department of Nursing, Chongqing City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
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3
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Chen M, Yu H, Yang L, Yang H, Cao H, Lei L, Ma L, Liu S, Tian L, Wang S. Combined early palliative care for non-small-cell lung cancer patients: a randomized controlled trial in Chongqing, China. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1184961. [PMID: 37781179 PMCID: PMC10539600 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1184961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose More effective approaches are needed to improve the prognosis of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Thus, we used the E-warm model to assess how early integration of interdisciplinary palliative care was related to the quality of life (QoL), psychological functioning, pain management, and nutrition factors of NSCLC patients. Methods This randomized controlled trial enrolled 280 newly diagnosed NSCLC patients, which were randomly divided (1:1) into combined early palliative care (CEPC) and standard oncological care (SC) groups. At baseline and after 24 weeks, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung (FACT-L) scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were used to assess QoL and psychological function, respectively. The Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) were used to assess cancer patients' pain and nutrition levels. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes comprised changes in the QoL, psychological functioning, pain, and nutrition state. The intention-to-treat method was applied for analysis. This study was registered at www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2200062617). Results Of the 140 patients enrolled in the CEPC and SC groups, 102 and 82 completed the research. The CEPC group presented higher QoL than the SC group (p < 0.05). Additionally, fewer patients presented depressive symptoms in the CEPC group than in the SC group (p < 0.05), as well as better nutritional status (p = 0.007) and pain management (p = 0.003). Compared to the SC group, CEPC patients had significantly longer OS (20.4 vs. 24.6 months, p = 0.042; HR: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.04-0.85, p = 0.029). Conclusion With combined early palliative care, NSCLC patients lived longer, had better QoL, were psychologically stable, were in less pain, and were more nutritionally satisfied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Chen
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huiqing Yu
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Geriatric Oncology and Department of Palliative Care, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liejun Yang
- Department of Geriatric Oncology and Department of Palliative Care, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Department of Geriatric Oncology and Department of Palliative Care, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haoyang Cao
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Geriatric Oncology and Department of Palliative Care, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liling Ma
- Department of Geriatric Oncology and Department of Palliative Care, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shihong Liu
- Department of Geriatric Oncology and Department of Palliative Care, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling Tian
- Department of Geriatric Oncology and Department of Palliative Care, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Sixiong Wang
- Department of Geriatric Oncology and Department of Palliative Care, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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Gofton C, Agar M, George J. Early Implementation of Palliative and Supportive Care in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Semin Liver Dis 2022; 42:514-530. [PMID: 36193677 DOI: 10.1055/a-1946-5592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Early palliative and supportive care referral is the standard of care for many malignancies. This paradigm results in improvements in patients' symptoms and quality of life and decreases the costs of medical care and unnecessary procedures. Leading oncology guidelines have recommended the integration of early referral to palliative and supportive services to care pathways for advanced malignancies. Currently, early referral to palliative care within the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) population is not utilized, with gastroenterology guidelines recommending referral of patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage D to these services. This review addresses this topic through analysis of the existing data within the oncology field as well as literature surrounding palliative care intervention in HCC. Early palliative and supportive care in HCC and its impact on patients, caregivers, and health services allow clinicians and researchers to identify management options that improve outcomes within existing service provisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Gofton
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia.,Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Meera Agar
- Department of Palliative Care, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Sydney, Camperdown and Darlington Campus, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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Patel AA, Woodrell C, Ufere NN, Hansen L, Tandon P, Verma M, Lai J, Pinotti R, Rakoski M. Developing Priorities for Palliative Care Research in Advanced Liver Disease: A Multidisciplinary Approach. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:1469-1480. [PMID: 34510839 PMCID: PMC8435283 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with advanced liver disease (AdvLD), such as decompensated cirrhosis (DC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), have significant palliative needs. However, little research is available to guide health care providers on how to improve key domains related to palliative care (PC). We sought to identify priority areas for future research in PC by performing a comprehensive literature review and conducting iterative expert panel discussions. We conducted a literature review using search terms related to AdvLD and key PC domains. Individual reviews of these domains were performed, followed by iterative discussions by a panel consisting of experts from multiple disciplines, including hepatology, specialty PC, and nursing. Based on these discussions, priority areas for research were identified. We identified critical gaps in the available research related to PC and AdvLD. We developed and shared five key priority questions incorporating domains related to PC. Conclusion: Future research endeavors focused on improving PC in AdvLD should consider addressing the five key priorities areas identified from literature reviews and expert panel discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpan A. Patel
- Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive DiseasesDepartment of MedicineDavid Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare SystemLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Christopher Woodrell
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative MedicineIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNYUSA
- James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical CenterBronxNYUSA
| | - Nneka N. Ufere
- Gastrointestinal UnitDepartment of MedicineMassachusetts General HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Lissi Hansen
- School of NursingOregon Health Sciences UniversityPortlandORUSA
| | - Puneeta Tandon
- Department of MedicineCirrhosis Care ClinicEdmontonALCanada
- Liver Transplant UnitUniversity of AlbertaEdmontonALCanada
| | - Manisha Verma
- Department of Digestive Diseases and TransplantationEinstein Healthcare NetworkPhiladelphiaPAUSA
| | - Jennifer Lai
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of MedicineUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Rachel Pinotti
- Gustave L. and Janet W. Levy LibraryIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Mina Rakoski
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyLoma Linda University HealthLoma LindaCAUSA
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Orman ES, Johnson AW, Ghabril M, Sachs GA. Hospice care for end stage liver disease in the United States. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 15:797-809. [PMID: 33599185 PMCID: PMC8282639 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2021.1892487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) have impaired physical, psychological, and social functions, which can diminish patient quality of life, burden family caregivers, and increase health-care utilization. For those with a life expectancy of less than six months, these impairments and their downstream effects can be addressed effectively through high-quality hospice care, delivered by multidisciplinary teams and focused on the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing of patients and caregivers, with a goal of improving quality of life. AREAS COVERED In this review, we examine the evidence supporting hospice for ESLD, we compare this evidence to that supporting hospice more broadly, and we identify potential criteria that may be useful in determining hospice appropriateness. EXPERT OPINION Despite the potential for hospice to improve care for those at the end of life, it is underutilized for patients with ESLD. Increasing the appropriate utilization of hospice for ESLD requires a better understanding of patient eligibility, which can be based on predictors of high short-term mortality and liver transplant ineligibility. Such hospice criteria should be data-driven and should accommodate the uncertainty faced by patients and physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric S. Orman
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine,Corresponding author: Eric S. Orman, Address: Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 702 Rotary Circle, Suite 225, Indianapolis, IN 46202,
| | - Amy W. Johnson
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine
| | - Marwan Ghabril
- Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Indiana University School of Medicine
| | - Greg A. Sachs
- Division of General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine,Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Regenstrief Institute, Inc
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Parackal A, Ramamoorthi K, Tarride JE. Economic Evaluation of Palliative Care Interventions: A Review of the Evolution of Methods From 2011 to 2019. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:108-122. [PMID: 34024147 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211011138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND End-of-life care is a driver of increasing healthcare costs; however, palliative care interventions may significantly reduce these costs. Economic evaluations that measure the incremental cost per quality adjusted life years (QALY) are warranted to inform cost-effectiveness of the intervention relative to a comparator and permit evaluation of investment against other therapeutic interventions. Evidence from the literature up to 2011 indicates a scarcity of cost-utility studies in palliative care research. AIM This literature review evaluates economic studies published between 2011 and 2019 to determine whether the methods of economic evaluations have evolved since 2011. DESIGN AND DATA SOURCES A literature search was completed using CENTRAL, OVID MEDLINE, EMBASE and other sources for publications between 2011 and 2019. Study characteristics, methodology and key findings of publications that met the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Quality of studies were assessed using indicators developed by authors of the previous literature review. RESULTS 46 papers were included for qualitative synthesis. Among them only 6 studies conducted formal cost-effectiveness evaluations-of these 5 measured QALYs and 1 employed probabilistic analyses. In addition, with the exception of 1 costing analysis, all other economic evaluations undertook a healthcare payer perspective. Quality of evidence were comparable to the previous literature review published in 2011. CONCLUSION Despite the small increase in the number of cost-utility studies, the methods of palliative care economic evaluations have not evolved significantly since 2011. More probabilistic cost-utility analyses of palliative care interventions from a societal perspective are necessary to truly evaluate the value for money.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Parackal
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact (HEI), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karishini Ramamoorthi
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact (HEI), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jean-Eric Tarride
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact (HEI), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,McMaster Chair, Health Technology Management, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Center for Health Economics and Policy Analysis (CHEPA), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Programs for Assessment to Technology in Health (PATH), The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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8
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Sabih AH, Laube R, Strasser SI, Lim L, Cigolini M, Liu K. Palliative medicine referrals for hepatocellular carcinoma: a national survey of gastroenterologists. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021:bmjspcare-2020-002807. [PMID: 33737287 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Palliative care (PC) service involvement for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients is suboptimal and little is known about the underlying reasons for this. We aimed to study clinicians' experience and attitudes towards PC in HCC. METHODS A nationwide survey was conducted of consultants/trainees recruited from the Gastroenterological Society of Australia membership directory. Clinician demographics, experience and attitudes towards PC use for HCC patients were collected. RESULTS There were 160 participants. Most attended weekly multidisciplinary team meetings (MDTM, 60%) and had no formal PC training (71%). MDTM with PC attendance was reported by 12%. Rates of PC referral increased incrementally from BCLC 0/A to D patients but were not universal even in advanced (46%) or terminal (87%) stages. Most acknowledged PC patient discussions occurred too late (61%). Those with prior PC training were more likely to refer BCLC 0/A and B patients for early PC. Referral rates for outpatient PC were higher in respondents who attended MDTM with PC present across all BCLC stages. PC service was rated good/very good by 70%/81% for outpatients/inpatients. Barriers to PC referral included clinician-perceived negative patient associations with PC (83%), clinician-perceived patient/caregiver lack of acceptance (81%/77%) and insufficient time (70%). CONCLUSIONS PC referral for HCC patients is not universal and occurs late even in late-stage disease. Prior PC training and/or PC presence at MDTM positively influences referral practices. Barriers to PC referral are not related to quality of PC services but rather to clinician-perceived patients' negative reactions to or lack of acceptance of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Hamid Sabih
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robyn Laube
- Department of Gastroenterology, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Park, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simone I Strasser
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lynn Lim
- Palliative Care Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maria Cigolini
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Palliative Care Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ken Liu
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Chung H, Harding R, Guo P. Palliative Care in the Greater China Region: A Systematic Review of Needs, Models, and Outcomes. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 61:585-612. [PMID: 32916261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT There is rapidly increasing need for palliative care in Greater China because of rapidly aging populations. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to systematically review and appraise evidence for palliative care needs, models of care, interventions, and outcomes in Greater China. METHODS Four databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) were searched, with hand searching of local journals and databases. Narrative synthesis was applied to the qualitative and quantitative evidence. RESULTS Nineteen qualitative studies and 47 quantitative studies were retained. With respect to care needs, nine themes were synthesized: pain control, reduced aggressive end-of-life care, truth telling, physical, emotional, and spiritual supports, and achieving preferred place of care/death. Informal caregivers expressed their needs for education and burden reduction. Health care professionals called for training and national policy support. Twenty-four studies evaluated interventions, mostly among patients with advanced cancer. Positive effects were suggested for improvements in quality of life, pain, anxiety and depression, readmission rate, and costs. Models of care evaluated were mostly specialist palliative care delivered in various settings (hospitals, residential care, and home). Outcome measures used were grouped into six categories of construct: quality of life, pain, physical assessment, psychospiritual assessment, quality of care, and implementation assessment. Limited rigorous randomized controlled trials are available to document intervention outcomes, and some problems (such as high attrition rates) reduced the strength of the evidence. CONCLUSION Palliative care services within Greater China should pay more attention to management of nonmalignant disease and to integration into primary services. Policy support is key to establishing culturally appropriate person-centered services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huei Chung
- Department of Pharmacy, Zhongxiao Branch, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Richard Harding
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ping Guo
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK; School of Nursing, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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10
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Laube R, Sabih AH, Strasser SI, Lim L, Cigolini M, Liu K. Palliative care in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 36:618-628. [PMID: 32627853 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.15169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common cancer with a poor prognosis, associated with high economic costs and a significant burden of disease. While it is often asymptomatic in the early stages, patients may experience great discomfort from advanced disease, treatment adverse effects, or decompensation of underlying cirrhosis. Palliative care has the potential to markedly improve quality of life, physical, and psychological symptoms in patients with end-stage liver disease, and has been shown to prolong survival in some nonhepatocellular carcinoma malignancies. However, this service is underutilized in hepatocellular carcinoma, and referrals are frequently late due to factors such as stigmatization, inadequate resources, lack of education for nonpalliative care physicians and inadequate modeling for integration of palliative and supportive care within liver disease services. In the future, education workshops, population-based awareness campaigns, increased funding and improved models of care, may improve the uptake of palliative care and subsequently optimize patient care, particularly towards the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Laube
- Department of Gastroenterology, Macquarie University Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abdul-Hamid Sabih
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simone I Strasser
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lynn Lim
- Palliative Care Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maria Cigolini
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Palliative Care Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ken Liu
- AW Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Liver Injury and Cancer Program, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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11
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Ufere NN, Halford JL, Caldwell J, Jang MY, Bhatt S, Donlan J, Ho J, Jackson V, Chung RT, El-Jawahri A. Health Care Utilization and End-of-Life Care Outcomes for Patients With Decompensated Cirrhosis Based on Transplant Candidacy. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 59:590-598. [PMID: 31655192 PMCID: PMC7024665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2019.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Patients with decompensated cirrhosis have high rates of health care utilization at end of life (EOL). However, the impact of transplant candidacy on intensity of EOL care is currently unknown. OBJECTIVES To assess the relationship between transplant candidacy and intensity of EOL care in the last year of life in an ambulatory cohort of patients with decompensated cirrhosis. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 230 patients with decompensated cirrhosis who were evaluated for liver transplantation in a large health care system between 1/1/2010 and 12/31/2017 and died by 6/20/2018. We compared health care utilization in the last year of life and EOL care outcomes between transplant-listed (n = 133) and nonlisted (n = 97) patients. We examined predictors of palliative and hospice care utilization using multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS During the last year of life, patients had a median of three hospitalizations (IQR 2-5) and spent a median of 31 days (IQR 16-49) in the hospital. In all, 80% of patients died in the hospital, with 70% dying in the intensive care unit. The majority (70.0%) received a life-sustaining procedure (mechanical ventilation, renal replacement therapy, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation) during their terminal hospitalization, which did not differ between transplant-listed and nonlisted patients (74.4% vs. 63.9%, P = 0.09). Transplant-listed patients had lower odds of receiving specialty palliative care (odds ratio 0.43, P = 0.005). Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma had higher odds of receiving hospice care (odds ratio 2.03, P = 0.049). CONCLUSION Patients with decompensated cirrhosis had intensive health care utilization during their last year of life regardless of transplant candidacy. Further work is needed to optimize their EOL care, particularly for patients who are ineligible for transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nneka N Ufere
- Liver Center and Gastrointestinal Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Sunil Bhatt
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John Donlan
- Liver Center and Gastrointestinal Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Janet Ho
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vicki Jackson
- Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Raymond T Chung
- Liver Center and Gastrointestinal Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Areej El-Jawahri
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Huang YT, Wang YW, Chi CW, Hu WY, Lin R, Shiao CC, Tang WR. Differences in medical costs for end-of-life patients receiving traditional care and those receiving hospice care: A retrospective study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229176. [PMID: 32078660 PMCID: PMC7032706 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hospice care has a positive effect on medical costs. The correlation between survival time after receiving hospice care and medical costs has not been previously investigated in the literature on Taiwan. This study aimed to compare the differences in medical costs between traditional care and hospice care among end-of-life patients with cancer. Methods Data from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance program on all patients who had passed away between 2010 and 2013 were used. Those whose year of death was between 2010 and 2013 were defined as end-of-life patients. The patients were divided into two groups: traditional care and hospice care. We then analyzed the differences in end-of-life medical cost between the two groups. Results From 2010 to 2013, the proportion of patients receiving hospice care significantly increased from 22.2% to 41.30%. In the hospice group, compared with the traditional group, the proportions of hospital stays over 14 days and deaths in a hospital were significantly higher, but the proportions of outpatient clinic visits; emergency room admissions; intensive care unit admissions; use of ventilator; use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation; and use of hemodialysis, surgery, and chemotherapy were significantly lower. Total medical costs were significantly lower. A greater number of days of survival for end-of-life patients when receiving hospice care results in higher saved medical costs. Conclusion Hospice care can effectively save a large amount of end-of-life medical costs, and more medical costs are saved when patients are referred to hospice care earlier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ting Huang
- Department of Nursing, Camillian Saint Mary`s Hospital Luodong, Luodong, Yilan, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Saint Mary's Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Sanxing Township, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Ying-Wei Wang
- Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare. Datong Dist., Taipei City, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Chou-Wen Chi
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City, Taiwan, R.O.C.,College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Yu Hu
- Department of Nursing College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan R.O.C
| | - Rung Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Guishan Dist., Taoyuan City, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Clinical Informatics and Medical Statistics Research Center, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chih-Chung Shiao
- Saint Mary's Junior College of Medicine, Nursing and Management, Sanxing Township, Taiwan, R.O.C.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Camillian Saint Mary`s Hospital Luodong, Luodong, Yilan, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Woung-Ru Tang
- School of Nursing, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan, ROC
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13
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Fricker ZP, Serper M. Current Knowledge, Barriers to Implementation, and Future Directions in Palliative Care for End-Stage Liver Disease. Liver Transpl 2019; 25:787-796. [PMID: 30758901 DOI: 10.1002/lt.25434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
End-stage liver disease (ESLD) is associated with a high degree of morbidity and mortality as well as symptom burden. Despite this, the rate of consultation with palliative care (PC) providers remains low, and invasive procedures near the end of life are commonplace. Studies show that involvement of PC providers improves patient satisfaction, and evidence from other chronic diseases demonstrates reduced costs of care and potentially increased survival. Better integration of PC is imperative but hindered by patient and provider misconceptions about its role in the care of patients with ESLD, specifically among candidates for liver transplantation. Additionally, reimbursement barriers and lack of provider knowledge may contribute to PC underutilization. In this review, we discuss the benefits of PC in ESLD, the variability of its delivery, and key stakeholders' perceptions about its use. Additionally, we identify barriers to more widespread PC adoption and highlight areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary P Fricker
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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14
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Mudumbi SK, Bourgeois CE, Hoppman NA, Smith CH, Verma M, Bakitas MA, Brown CJ, Markland AD. Palliative Care and Hospice Interventions in Decompensated Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Rapid Review of Literature. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:1177-1184. [PMID: 29698124 PMCID: PMC6104656 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2017.0656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with decompensated cirrhosis (DC) and/or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have a high symptom burden and mortality and may benefit from palliative care (PC) and hospice interventions. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to search published literature to determine the impact of PC and hospice interventions for patients with DC/HCC. METHODS We searched electronic databases for adults with DC/HCC who received PC, using a rapid review methodology. Data were extracted for study design, participant and intervention characteristics, and three main groups of outcomes: healthcare resource utilization (HRU), end-of-life care (EOLC), and patient-reported outcomes. RESULTS Of 2466 results, eight were included in final results. There were six retrospective cohort studies, one prospective cohort, and one quality improvement study. Five of eight studies had a high risk of bias and seven studied patients with HCC. A majority found a reduction in HRU (total cost of hospitalization, number of emergency department visits, hospital, and critical care admissions). Some studies found an impact on EOLC, including location of death (less likely to die in the hospital) and resuscitation (less likely to have resuscitation). One study evaluated survival and found hospice had no impact and another showed improvement of symptom burden. CONCLUSION Studies included suggest that PC and hospice interventions in patients with DC/HCC reduce HRU, impact EOLC, and improve symptoms. Given the few number of studies, heterogeneity of interventions and outcomes, and high risk of bias, further high-quality research is needed on PC and hospice interventions with a greater focus on DC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya K. Mudumbi
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Health Services and Outcomes Research Post-Doctoral Training Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | | | - Nicholas A. Hoppman
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Catherine H. Smith
- Lister Hill Library of the Health Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Manisha Verma
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Transplantation, Einstein Healthcare Network, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Marie A. Bakitas
- Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Cynthia J. Brown
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Department of Veterans Affairs Birmingham/Atlanta Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
- Comprehensive Center for Healthy Aging, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Alayne D. Markland
- Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Department of Veterans Affairs Birmingham/Atlanta Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
- Comprehensive Center for Healthy Aging, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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15
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Llovet JM, Mazzaferro V, Piscaglia F, Raoul JL, Schirmacher P, Vilgrain V. EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines: Management of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatol 2018; 69:182-236. [PMID: 29628281 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5330] [Impact Index Per Article: 888.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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16
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Palliative Care for People With Hepatocellular Carcinoma, and Specific Benefits for Older Adults. Clin Ther 2018; 40:512-525. [PMID: 29571567 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2018.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of primary liver cancer, has a rapidly rising prevalence in the United States and a very poor overall rate of survival. This epidemic is driven by the cohort of aging Baby Boomers with hepatitis C viral infection and the increasing prevalence of cirrhosis as a result of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Because curative options are limited, the disease course creates, in patients and their families, distressing uncertainty around prognosis and treatment decisions. Older adults are disproportionately affected by HCC and have more comorbidities, adding to the complexity of the disease. This population would benefit from increased access to palliative care services, which can potentially complement the treatments throughout the disease trajectory. The purpose of this review was to use existing evidence to propose a new model of palliative care integration in patients with HCC. Thus, we focus on the HCC stage and the treatment algorithm, the ways that palliative care can offer support in this population at each stage, as well as elements that can enhance patient and family support throughout the entire disease trajectory, with an emphasis on the care of older adults with HCC. METHODS This is a narrative review in which we identify evidence-based ways that palliative care can help younger and older adults with HCC and their families, at each stage of HCC and throughout the disease trajectory. FINDINGS We propose ways to integrate HCC and palliative care based on the existing evidence in both fields. Palliative care offers support in symptom management, advanced care planning, and decision making in ways that are specific to each stage of HCC. We also discuss the evidence that illustrates the palliative care needs of patients with HCC that span the entire course of illness, including coping with the stigmatization of liver disease, addressing informational needs at different stages, and discussing quality of life longitudinally. IMPLICATIONS Integrating palliative care into the treatment of patients with HCC has the potential to improve outcomes, although more research is needed to build this evidence base.
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17
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Pont L, Jansen K, Schaufel MA, Haugen DF, Ruths S. Drug utilization and medication costs at the end of life. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2016; 16:237-43. [PMID: 26919437 DOI: 10.1586/14737167.2016.1158106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In the end stages of life, drug treatment goals shift to symptom control and quality of life and as such changes in drug utilization are expected. The aim of this paper is to review the extent to which costs are considered in drug utilization research at the end of life, with a particular focus on the outcome measures being used. This systematic review identified seven studies across varied settings studies reporting both drug utilization and medication cost outcome measures. The main factors identified that impacted medication use and cost were the time period considered and the provision of specialist palliative care services. Combining drug utilization and medication cost outcomes is critical for the allocation of healthcare resources and the development of a sound health policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Pont
- a Centre for Health Systems and Safety Research, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University , North Ryde , Australia
| | - Kristian Jansen
- b Research Unit for General Practice, Uni Research Health, University of Bergen , Bergen , Norway.,c Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care , University of Bergen , Bergen , Norway
| | - Margrete Aase Schaufel
- b Research Unit for General Practice, Uni Research Health, University of Bergen , Bergen , Norway.,d Department of Thoracic Medicine , Haukeland University Hospital , Bergen , Norway
| | - Dagny Faksvåg Haugen
- e Regional Centre of Excellence for Palliative Care, Haukeland University Hospital , Bergen , Norway.,f Department of Clinical Medicine , University of Bergen , Bergen , Norway
| | - Sabine Ruths
- b Research Unit for General Practice, Uni Research Health, University of Bergen , Bergen , Norway.,c Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care , University of Bergen , Bergen , Norway
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18
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Chang HT, Lin MH, Chen CK, Chen TJ, Tsai SL, Cheng SY, Chiu TY, Tsai ST, Hwang SJ. Medical care utilization and costs on end-of-life cancer patients: The role of hospice care. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e5216. [PMID: 27858865 PMCID: PMC5591113 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000005216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Although there are 3 hospice care programs for terminal cancer patients in Taiwan, the medical utilization and expenses for these patients by programs have not been well-explored. The aim of this study was to examine the medical utilization and expenses of terminal cancer patients under different programs of hospice care in the last 90, 30, and 14 days of life.This was a retrospective observational study by secondary data analysis. By using the National Health Insurance claim database and Hospice Shared Care Databases. We identified cancer descents from these databases and classified them into nonhospice care and hospice care groups based on different combination of hospice care received. We then analyzed medical utilization including inpatient care, outpatient care, emergency room visits, and medical expenses by patient groups in the last 90, 30, and 14 days of life.Among 118,376 cancer descents, 46.9% ever received hospice care. Patients had ever received hospice care had significantly lower average medical utilization and expenses in their last 90, 30, and 14 days of life (all P < 0.001) compared to nonhospice care group. Each hospice care group had significantly less medical utilization and expenses in the last 90, 30, and 14 days of life (all P < 0.01).Different kinds of hospice care program have different effects on medical care utilization reduction and cost-saving at different stage of the end of life of terminal cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Ting Chang
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital; School of Medicine and Institute of Public Health and Community Medicine Research Center, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Ming-Hwai Lin
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital; School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Chun-Ku Chen
- Department of Radiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital; School of Medicine and Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Tzeng-Ji Chen
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital; School of Medicine and Institute of Hospital and Health Care Administration, National Yang-Ming University
| | - Shu-Lin Tsai
- National Health Insurance Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare
| | - Shao-Yi Cheng
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine and Hospital, National Taiwan University
| | - Tai-Yuan Chiu
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine and Hospital, National Taiwan University
| | - Shih-Tzu Tsai
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Shinn-Jang Hwang
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital; School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University
- Correspondence: Shinn-Jang Hwang, Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital; School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shipai Rd., Beitou Dist., Taipei City 11217, Taiwan (e-mail: )
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19
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Chang HT, Chen CK, Lin MH, Chou P, Chen TJ, Hwang SJ. Readmissions in Cancer Patients After Receiving Inpatient Palliative Care in Taiwan: A 9-Year Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e2782. [PMID: 26937907 PMCID: PMC4779004 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000002782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Few studies have reported on readmissions among cancer patients receiving inpatient palliative care (IPC). This study investigated readmissions in cancer patients after their first discharge from IPC in Taiwan from 2002 to 2010.This study was a secondary data analysis using information from the National Health Insurance Database in Taiwan from 2002 to 2010. We included subjects ≥20 years old diagnosed with malignant neoplasms who were listed in the registry of catastrophic illness. Patients diagnosed with cancer before January 1, 2002 or who had ever been admitted to an inpatient hospice palliative care unit before the study period were excluded. Readmission was defined as hospital readmission at least once after discharge from first admission to IPC until mortality or the end of the study period.A total of 42,022 patients who met the inclusion criteria were identified. The majority of these patients were male (60.4%). The mean age of cancer diagnosis was 64.0 ± 14.4 years for men and 64.5 ± 14.7 years for women. The mean age at first hospice ward admission was 65.2 ± 14.2 years for men and 65.9 ± 14.9 years for women. During their first admission to IPC, 59.2% patients died, and the median stay of first IPC admission was 8.0 days. Among those discharged alive from their first admission to IPC, 64.9% were readmitted, and 19.4% of these patients were readmitted on the same day of discharge. From first IPC discharge until mortality, 54.8% of patients were readmitted once, 23.9% were readmitted twice, 9.9% were readmitted 3 times, and 11.5% were readmitted 4 or more times. Being male, having a higher insurance premium level, having a longer length of stay during first IPC admission, being admitted to a teaching hospital, or being admitted to a tertiary hospital increased the adjusted hazard ratio for readmission.We found that terminal cancer patients in Taiwan received relatively late referrals for first admission to IPC and experienced a high rate of readmission after first discharge from IPC. Policies to improve hospice palliative care referrals and decrease readmissions should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Ting Chang
- From the Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, and School of Medicine and Institute of Public Health and Community Medicine Research Center, National Yang-Ming University (H-TC); Department of Radiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, and School of Medicine and Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University (C-KC); Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, and School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University (M-HL and S-JH); Institute of Public Health and Community Medicine Research Center, National Yang-Ming University (PC); and Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, and School of Medicine and Institute of Hospital and Health Care Administration, National Yang-Ming University (T-JC), Taipei, Taiwan
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20
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Wang JP, Wu CY, Hwang IH, Kao CH, Hung YP, Hwang SJ, Li CP. How different is the care of terminal pancreatic cancer patients in inpatient palliative care units and acute hospital wards? A nationwide population-based study. BMC Palliat Care 2016; 15:1. [PMID: 26746232 PMCID: PMC4706655 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-016-0075-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inpatient palliative care is important for patients with terminal pancreatic cancer. However, the differences between inpatient palliative care and acute hospital care for inpatients with pancreatic cancer have not been explored in a population-based study. METHODS This population-based nationwide study was conducted using data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance database to analyze the differences between inpatient palliative care and acute hospital care for inpatients with pancreatic cancer. We identified 854 patients with terminal pancreatic cancer, who had received in-hospital end-of-life care between January 2003 and December 2006. These patients were then sub-divided and matched 1:1 (using propensity score matching) according to whether they received inpatient palliative care (n = 276) or acute hospital care (n = 276). These groups were subsequently compared to evaluate any differences in the use of aggressive procedures, prescribed medications, and medical costs. RESULTS Inpatient palliative care was typically provided by family physicians (39%) and oncologists (25%), while acute hospital care was typically provided by oncologists (29%) and gastroenterologists (24%). The inpatient palliative care group used natural opium alkaloids significantly more frequently than the acute hospital care group (84.4% vs. 56.5%, respectively; P < 0.001). The inpatient palliative care group also had shorter hospital stays (10.6 ± 11.1 days vs. 20.6 ± 16.3 days, respectively; P < 0.001), fewer aggressive procedures, and lower medical costs (both, P < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Compared to patients in acute hospital wards, patients with pancreatic cancer in inpatient palliative care units received more frequent pain control treatments, underwent fewer aggressive procedures, and incurred lower medical costs. Therefore, inpatient palliative care should be considered a viable option for patients with terminal pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack P Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan.,National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei City Hospital, Renai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yi Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan. .,Institute of Public Health & Department of Public Health, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - I-Hsuan Hwang
- College of Healthcare Administration and Management, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hui Kao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan.,National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ping Hung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan.,National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Oncology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shinn-Jang Hwang
- National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Pin Li
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Sec. 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan. .,National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Yim HJ, Suh SJ, Um SH. Current management of hepatocellular carcinoma: an Eastern perspective. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:3826-42. [PMID: 25852267 PMCID: PMC4385529 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i13.3826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Revised: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death, especially in Eastern areas. With advancements in diagnosis and treatment modalities for HCC, the survival and prognosis of HCC patients are improving. However, treatment patterns are not uniform between areas despite efforts to promote a common protocol. Although many hepatologists in Asian countries may adopt the principles of the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system, they are also independently making an effort to expand the indications of each treatment and to combine therapies for better outcomes. Several expanded criteria for liver transplantation in HCC have been developed in Asian countries. Living donor liver transplantation is much more commonly performed in these countries than deceased donor liver transplantation, and it may be preceded by other treatments such as the down-staging of tumors. Local ablation therapies are often combined with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and the outcome is comparable to that of surgical resection. The indications of TACE are expanding, and there are new types of transarterial therapies. Although data on drug-eluting beads, TACE, and radioembolization in Asian countries are still relatively sparse compared with Western countries, these methods are gradually gaining popularity because of better tolerability and the possibility of improved response rates. Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy and radiotherapy are not included in Western guidelines, but are currently being used actively in several Asian countries. For more advanced HCCs, appropriate combinations of TACE, radiotherapy, and sorafenib can be considered, and emerging data indicate improved outcomes of combination therapies compared with single therapies. To include these paradigm shifts into newer treatment guidelines, more studies may be needed, but they are certainly in progress.
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