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Dewhurst F, Tomkow L, Poole M, McLellan E, Kunonga TP, Damisa E, Stowell M, Todd C, Hanratty B. Unrepresented, unheard and discriminated against: A qualitative exploration of relatives' and professionals' views of palliative care experiences of people of African and Caribbean descent during the COVID-19 pandemic. Palliat Med 2023; 37:1447-1460. [PMID: 37609831 PMCID: PMC10548766 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231188156] [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] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People of African and Caribbean descent experienced disproportionately high mortality from COVID-19 and have poor access to palliative care. AIM To explore palliative care experiences of people of African and Caribbean descent during and immediately prior to the pandemic. DESIGN Qualitative interview study with thematic analysis. Refinement of themes/recommendations in consultation with an expert patient and public advisory group. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Twenty-six bereaved relatives and 13 health/social care professionals (cared for people of African and Caribbean descent) from throughout England, recruited using social media, community networks and direct advertising to over 150 organisations. RESULTS Three themes were identified: Representation: Participants did not see themselves reflected in the palliative care services and did not expect their needs to be understood. Mistrust of the healthcare system and perceptions of racism were common and led to anticipation of inequitable care. Personalisation: Relatives and professionals reported a lack of cultural and religious sensitivity in healthcare. Assumptions were made based on ethnicity, and services not offered to all. Awareness and education: Professionals felt they lacked the knowledge to provide care to diverse communities, but were reluctant to ask, due to fear of making mistakes. Inequitable access to services was exacerbated by, but not unique to, the pandemic. Participants recommended raising awareness of palliative services, building professional competence in culturally-sensitive care, and greater ethnic diversity within services. CONCLUSIONS Person-centred, culturally-competent palliative care is not the norm for people of African and Caribbean descent. Expectations of inequitable care are widespread. Sustained action on multiple fronts is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Dewhurst
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- St Oswald’s Hospice, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Marie Poole
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Emma McLellan
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | | | - Melanie Stowell
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Chris Todd
- University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Barbara Hanratty
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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2
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Wijsenbeek M, Valenzuela C, Holland A. Palliative care in COPD and ILD: a call for action. Eur Respir J 2023; 62:2301076. [PMID: 37591552 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01076-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marlies Wijsenbeek
- Centre for Interstitial Lung Diseases and Sarcoidosis, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Claudia Valenzuela
- Hospital Universitario La Princesa, Department of Pulmonology, Madrid, Spain
| | - Anne Holland
- Monash University, Department of Physiotherapy, Clayton, Australia
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3
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Pollock K, Caswell G, Turner N, Wilson E. The ideal and the real: Patient and bereaved family caregiver perspectives on the significance of place of death. DEATH STUDIES 2023; 48:312-325. [PMID: 37338854 PMCID: PMC10860700 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2225042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Home has become established as the preferred place of death within health policy and practice in the UK and internationally. However, growing awareness of the structured inequalities underpinning end-of-life care and the challenges for family members undertaking care at home raise questions about the nature of patient and public preferences and priorities regarding place of death and the feasibility of home management of the complex care needs at the end-of-life. This paper presents findings from a qualitative study of 12 patients' and 34 bereaved family caregivers' perspectives and priorities regarding place of death. Participants expressed complex and nuanced accounts in which place of death was not afforded an overarching priority. The study findings point to public pragmatism and flexibility in relation to place of death, and the misalignment of current policy with public priorities that are predominantly for comfort and companionship at the end-of-life, regardless of place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Pollock
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Glenys Caswell
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Nicola Turner
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eleanor Wilson
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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4
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Sobanski PZ, Krajnik M, Goodlin SJ. Editorial: Palliative care for people living with heart and lung disease. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 9:1127688. [PMID: 36704459 PMCID: PMC9872112 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.1127688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Z. Sobanski
- Palliative Care Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Schwyz Hospital, Schwyz, Switzerland,*Correspondence: Piotr Z. Sobanski ✉
| | - Małgorzata Krajnik
- Department of Palliative Care, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Sarah J. Goodlin
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States,Patient-centered Education, Portland, OR, United States
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5
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Snijders R, Raijmakers N, Firouzian A, Kodde A, Kazimier H, Bols F, Zerstegen C, Brom L. Trends in Palliative Care Telephone Consultation Support for Health Care Professionals: A Dutch Nationwide Registry between 2004 and 2019. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:87-93. [PMID: 35994009 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0097] [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: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Regional palliative care consultation (PCC) teams aim to support health care professionals by telephone in providing quality palliative care (PC) in the Netherlands. Objectives: The study aims to assess trends in the number and characteristics of PC telephone consultations in the Netherlands between 2004 and 2019. Design: A retrospective observational study reviewed data from the Dutch national register for PC consultations by telephone (PRADO). To assess trends in the number of consultations, three time periods were defined: 2004-2008, 2009-2013, and 2014-2019. All analyses were conducted using STATA. Results: A total of 83,554 PC telephone consultations were analyzed. There was a slight decrease in the number of consultations since 2014, from 5811 (2014) to 4914 (2019). The Dutch PCC telephone helpdesk was mainly consulted by general practitioners, with pharmacological issues (65%) and pain (44%) being the main concerns. The data included 73,833 patients, of whom 63% were 65 years or older (18-109) and 51% were male. The proportion of noncancer patients increased during the selected time periods, 2004-2008 (11%), 2009-2013 (16%), and 2014-2019 (22%). The proportion of consultations requested for hospitalized patients was higher in 2014-2019 (7.9%) than in 2009-2013 (4.5%). Conclusion: Dutch PC telephone consultations have changed over time. More PC telephone consultations were held for hospitalized patients and noncancer diseases over the past years. These trends are in line with the shift toward more integrated PC in which different services collaborate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolf Snijders
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Association for Palliative Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Natasja Raijmakers
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Association for Palliative Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Azadeh Firouzian
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid Kodde
- Netherlands Association for Palliative Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Stichting PaTz, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hetty Kazimier
- Netherlands Association for Palliative Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Floor Bols
- Department of Palliative Care, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | | | - Linda Brom
- Research & Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Association for Palliative Care, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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6
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Adsersen M, Thygesen LC, Neergaard MA, Sjøgren P, Mondrup L, Nissen JS, Clausen LM, Groenvold M. Higher Admittance to Specialized Palliative Care for Patients with High Education and Income: A Nationwide Register-Based Study. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:57-66. [PMID: 36130182 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: While associations between socioeconomic position, that is, income and education and admittance to specialized palliative care (SPC) have been investigated previously, no prior national studies have examined admittance to all types of SPC, that is, hospital-based palliative care team/units and hospice. Aim: To investigate whether cancer patients' education and income were associated with admittance to SPC (hospital-based palliative care team/unit, hospice). Design: Data sources were several nationwide registers. The association between SPC and education and income, respectively, was investigated using logistic regression analyses. Setting/Participants: Patients dying from cancer in Denmark 2010-12 (n = 41,741). Results: In the study population, 45% had lower secondary school, and 6% had an academic education. Patients with an academic education were more often admitted to SPC than those having lower secondary school (odds ratio [OR] = 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.51-1.89). Patients in the highest income quartile (Q4) were more often admitted than those in the lowest income quartile (Q1) (OR = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.37-1.56). This association was stronger for hospice (OR = 1.67 (95% CI: 1.54-1.81)) than for admittance to hospital-based palliative care team/unit (OR = 1.23 (95% CI: 1.14-1.31)). Compared with patients who had lower secondary school and the lowest income, the OR of admittance to SPC among the most affluent academics was 1.96 (95% CI: 1.71-2.25). Conclusion: This nationwide study indicates that admittance to SPC was clearly associated with education and income. We believe that the associations indicate inequity. Initiatives to improve access for patients with low education or income should be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Adsersen
- Research Unit, Department of Palliative Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lau Caspar Thygesen
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Per Sjøgren
- Section of Palliative Medicine, Department of Oncology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lise Mondrup
- The Palliative Team Esbjerg, Sydvestjysk Hospital, Esbjerg, Denmark
| | | | | | - Mogens Groenvold
- Research Unit, Department of Palliative Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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7
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Beiranvand S, Rassouli M, Hazrati M, Molavynejad S, Hojjat S, Tuvesson H, Zarea K. Hospice care delivery system requirements. Int J Palliat Nurs 2022; 28:562-574. [PMID: 36520099 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2022.28.12.562] [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: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospice care is a perceived need in the Iranian health system. AIM This qualitative study is explaining the stakeholders' perception of what is required to develop a hospice care system for patients living with cancer in Iran. METHODS A total of 21 participants (specialists, policymakers, healthcare providers, cancer patients and family caregivers) were selected through purposeful sampling and interviewed in-depth in 2020. Interviews were analysed through directed content analysis. FINDINGS A total of 1054 codes, 7 categories and 21 subcategories were extracted. The requirements include the need to provide: multiple settings and diverse services; participatory decision making; integration into the health system; specialised human resources; an organised system of accountability; the preparation of the existing health system; and wider capacity-building in existing Iranian society. CONCLUSION It is essential that Iranian services create a participatory comprehensive care plan, utilise expert manpower, integrate hospice care into the existing health system and organise a system of accountability. Policymakers should focus on the preparation of the health system and capacity building in society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Beiranvand
- Assistant Professor, Nursing Care Research Center in Chronic Diseases, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Maryam Rassouli
- Professor, Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Hazrati
- Assistant Professor, Community Based Psychiatric Care Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shahram Molavynejad
- Assistant Professor, Nursing Care Research Center in Chronic Diseases, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Suzanne Hojjat
- Doctor of Medicine, Department of Home-based Palliative Care, ALA Cancer Prevention and Control Center (MACSA), Tehran, Iran; President of French Institute of International Research and High Education, France
| | - Hanna Tuvesson
- Associate Professor, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Sweden
| | - Kourosh Zarea
- Associate Professor, Nursing Care Research Center in Chronic Diseases, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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8
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Louise Forrow H, Lhussier M, Scott J, Atkinson J. Why patients in specialist palliative care in-patient settings are at high risk of falls and falls-related harm: A realist synthesis. Palliat Med 2022; 36:1469-1482. [PMID: 36321587 PMCID: PMC9749013 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221127808] [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: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls are the third highest reported safety incident in Specialist Palliative Care in-patient settings and yet specific risk factors connected with falling and associated outcomes in this setting are poorly understood. AIM To understand the key individualised risk factors leading to falls in specialist in-patient palliative care settings and understand the implications and outcomes for the patients who fall. DESIGN A realist synthesis of the literature, reported following the Realist And Meta-narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards (RAMESES) standards. DATA SOURCES An iterative literature search was conducted across three recognised health collections as well as grey literature from policy, practice and other relevant areas. RESULTS Falls taking place within in-patient specialist palliative care settings can cause significant harm to patients. The risk factors for these patients are multifaceted and often interlinked with underpinning complex realist mechanisms including a history of falls, the age of the person, impact of complex medications, improving functional status and the presence of delirium. CONCLUSION In-patients in specialist palliative care settings are at risk of falling and this is multifactorial with complex reasoning mechanisms underpinning the identified risks. There is a significant impact of a fall in this cohort of patients with many sustaining serious harm, delayed discharge and both physical and psychological impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Louise Forrow
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.,Marie Curie, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Jason Scott
- Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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9
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Bowers SP, Chin M, O’Riordan M, Carduff E. The end of life experiences of people living with socio-economic deprivation in the developed world: an integrative review. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:193. [PMID: 36335335 PMCID: PMC9636719 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01080-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Those experiencing socioeconomic deprivation have poorer quality of health throughout their life course which can result in poorer quality of death - with decreased access to palliative care services, greater use of acute care, and reduced access to preferred place of care compared with patients from less deprived populations. AIM To summarise the current global evidence from developed countries on end-of-life experience for those living with socio-economic deprivation. DESIGN Integrative review in accordance with PRISMA. A thorough search of major databases from 2010-2020, using clear definitions of end-of-life care and well-established proxy indicators of socio-economic deprivation. Empirical research describing experience of adult patients in the last year of life care were included. RESULTS Forty studies were included from a total of 3508 after screening and selection. These were deemed to be of high quality; from a wide range of countries with varying healthcare systems; and encompassed all palliative care settings for patients with malignant and non-malignant diagnoses. Three global themes were identified: 1) multi-dimensional symptom burden, 2) preferences and planning and 3) health and social care interactions at the end of life. CONCLUSIONS Current models of healthcare services are not meeting the needs of those experiencing socioeconomic deprivation at the end-of-life. Further work is needed to understand the disparity in care, particularly around ensuring patients voices are heard and can influence service development and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah P Bowers
- NHS Tayside and University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, DD1 9SY UK
| | - Ming Chin
- University Hospital Wishaw, 50 Netherton Street, Lanarkshire, ML2 0DP UK
| | - Maire O’Riordan
- Marie Curie Hospice, 133 Balornock Road, Glasgow, G21 3US UK
| | - Emma Carduff
- Marie Curie Hospice, 133 Balornock Road, Glasgow, G21 3US UK
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10
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Tobin J, Rogers A, Winterburn I, Tullie S, Kalyanasundaram A, Kuhn I, Barclay S. Hospice care access inequalities: a systematic review and narrative synthesis. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2022; 12:142-151. [PMID: 33608254 PMCID: PMC9125370 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inequalities in access to hospice care is a source of considerable concern; white, middle-class, middle-aged patients with cancer have traditionally been over-represented in hospice populations. OBJECTIVE To identify from the literature the demographic characteristics of those who access hospice care more often, focusing on: diagnosis, age, gender, marital status, ethnicity, geography and socioeconomic status. DESIGN Systematic literature review and narrative synthesis. METHOD Searches of Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Assia and Embase databases from January 1987 to end September 2019 were conducted. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed studies of adult patients in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, receiving inpatient, day, outpatient and community hospice care. Of the 45 937 titles retrieved, 130 met the inclusion criteria. Narrative synthesis of extracted data was conducted. RESULTS An extensive literature search demonstrates persistent inequalities in hospice care provision: patients without cancer, the oldest old, ethnic minorities and those living in rural or deprived areas are under-represented in hospice populations. The effect of gender and marital status is inconsistent. There is a limited literature concerning hospice service access for the LGBTQ+ community, homeless people and those living with HIV/AIDS, diabetes and cystic fibrosis. CONCLUSION Barriers of prognostic uncertainty, institutional cultures, particular needs of certain groups and lack of public awareness of hospice services remain substantial challenges to the hospice movement in ensuring equitable access for all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake Tobin
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Alice Rogers
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Isaac Winterburn
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Sebastian Tullie
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | | | - Isla Kuhn
- Medical Library, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Stephen Barclay
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
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11
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Vestergaard AHS, Christiansen CF, Neergaard MA, Valentin JB, Johnsen SP. Socioeconomic Disparity Trends in End-of-Life Care for Cancer and Non-Cancer Patients: Are We Closing the Gap? Clin Epidemiol 2022; 14:653-664. [PMID: 35548265 PMCID: PMC9081009 DOI: 10.2147/clep.s362170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Socioeconomic disparities in end-of-life care have been reported across underlying diseases, but there is a paucity of information on potential time trends. Thus, we aimed to examine time trends in use of health-care services at the end of life according to socioeconomic position in patients dying from cancer and non-cancer diseases. Materials and Methods We conducted a nationwide registry-based study among adults dying from cancer or non-cancer diseases (diabetes, dementia, heart failure, ischemic heart disease, stroke, chronic liver disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) in Denmark in 2006–2016. We obtained data on patients’ educational level and income level and use of health-care services within three months before death. Use of health-care services according to educational level and income level was plotted by calendar year of death and compared by regression analyses adjusting for age, sex, comorbidity, cohabitation, and municipality. Results In both cancer (n = 169,694) and non-cancer patients (n = 180,350), we found limited socioeconomic disparities and no clear temporal trends in use of hospital, intensive care, emergency room, general practice, home care nurse, and hospice. In 2006/2007, one percentage point more cancer patients with high income level compared with low income level were affiliated with hospital-based specialist palliative care (adjusted mean difference: 0.01 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.01; 0.02)), whereas this was 12 percentage points in 2016 (adjusted mean difference: 0.12 (95% CI: 0.09; 0.14)). Conclusion Socioeconomic disparities in specialist palliative care tended to increase over time among cancer patients but were limited and without clear time trends in use of other health-care services in both cancer and non-cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Høy Seemann Vestergaard
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
- Correspondence: Anne Høy Seemann Vestergaard, Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Olof Palmes Allé 43-45, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark, Tel +45 87168434, Fax +45 87167215, Email
| | - Christian Fynbo Christiansen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Mette Asbjoern Neergaard
- Palliative Care Unit & Child and Youth Palliative Care Team, Oncology Department, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N, 8200, Denmark
| | - Jan Brink Valentin
- Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University and Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg Ø, 9220, Denmark
| | - Søren Paaske Johnsen
- Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University and Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg Ø, 9220, Denmark
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12
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Santos-Willshere J, Pizarro N. Introducing nurse prescribing in Gibraltar: the impact on palliative care. BRITISH JOURNAL OF NURSING (MARK ALLEN PUBLISHING) 2022; 31:162-168. [PMID: 35152752 DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2022.31.3.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This article critically explores the impact of the introduction of nurse prescribing on palliative care in Gibraltar. A preliminary audit review of the prescriptions issued by the two palliative independent nurse prescribers over their first full calendar year of prescribing (2020) revealed two primary areas of impact: facilitating end-of-life care at home and improving anticipatory prescribing for end-of-life symptom management. These initial findings will be discussed in the context of the challenges and facilitators encountered during the first year of prescribing practice. Challenges were primarily related to the introduction of an advanced nursing role into an existing medical paradigm. Identified facilitators included comprehensive record keeping, collaborative working and the development of local guidelines, as well as the support of management and peers. The article concludes with a recommendation for further audits of prescribing data as a way to measure the impact of the new role and to inform future palliative service development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicole Pizarro
- Specialist Palliative Nurse, Gibraltar Health Authority, Gibraltar
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13
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Abstract
Systems for end of life care around the world vary in availability, structure, and funding. When available, most end of life care is in the hospice model with an interdisciplinary team approach to care of people who are expected to die within months and whose primary goal is to maximize quality of life. Symptom management near the end of life is guided by prognosis and individual priorities. People dying with neurologic disease are likely to have impaired communication or mobility that adds to the complexity of prognostication and symptom management. Neurologic specialists have important roles to play in end of life care due to their unique understanding of disease prognosis as well as end of life symptom burden and management. Neurologic specialists need to become strong advocates for the importance of end of life care by being actively involved in the hospice movement and by addressing current disparities in access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farrah N Daly
- EvenBeam Neuropalliative Care, Leesburg, VA, United States.
| | - Usha Ramanathan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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14
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Rees-Roberts M, Williams P, Hashem F, Brigden C, Greene K, Gage H, Goodwin M, Silsbury G, Wee B, Barclay S, Wilson PM, Butler C. Hospice at Home services in England: a national survey. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021; 11:454-460. [PMID: 31722982 PMCID: PMC8606452 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2019-001818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hospice at Home (HAH) services aim to enable patients to be cared for and die at home, if that is their choice and achieve a 'good death'. A national survey, in 2017, aimed to describe and compare the features of HAH services and understand key enablers to service provision. METHODS Service managers of adult HAH services in the 'Hospice UK' and National Association for Hospice at Home directories within England were invited to participate. Information on service configuration, referral, staffing, finance, care provision and enablers to service provision were collected by telephone interview. RESULTS Of 128 services invited, 70 (54.7%) provided data. Great diversity was found. Most services operated in mixed urban/rural (74.3%) and mixed deprivation (77.1%) areas and provided hands-on care (97.1%), symptom assessment and management (91.4%), psychosocial support (94.3%) and respite care (74.3%). Rapid response (within 4 hours) was available in 65.7%; hands-on care 24 hours a day in 52.2%. Charity donations were the main source of funding for 71.2%. Key enablers for service provision included working with local services (eg, district nursing, general practitioner services), integrated health records, funding and anticipatory care planning. Access to timely medication and equipment was critical. CONCLUSION There is considerable variation in HAH services in England. Due to this variation it was not possible to categorise services into delivery types. Services work to supplement local care using a flexible approach benefitting from integration and funding. Further work defining service features related to patient and/or carer outcomes would support future service development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Williams
- Department of Mathematics, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Ferhana Hashem
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Charlotte Brigden
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
- Hospice at Home, Pilgrims Hospices in East Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Kay Greene
- Research Lead, National Association for Hospice at Home, Fareham, UK
- Hospice at Home, Mary Ann Evans Hospice, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, UK
| | - Heather Gage
- Surrey Health Economics Centre, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Mary Goodwin
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Graham Silsbury
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Bee Wee
- Palliative Medicine, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Stephen Barclay
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Patricia M Wilson
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Claire Butler
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
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15
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Development, feasibility, and acceptability of an intervention to improve care for agitation in people living in nursing homes with dementia nearing the end-of-life. Int Psychogeriatr 2021; 33:1069-1081. [PMID: 32928327 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610220001647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop a staff training intervention for agitation in people with severe dementia, reaching end-of-life, residing in nursing homes (NHs), test feasibility, acceptability, and whether a trial is warranted. DESIGN Feasibility study with pre- and post-intervention data collection, qualitative interviews, and focus groups. SETTING Three NHs in South East England with dementia units, diverse in terms of size, ownership status, and location. PARTICIPANTS Residents with a dementia diagnosis or scoring ≥2 on the Noticeable Problems Checklist, rated as "severe" on Clinical Dementia Rating Scale, family carers, and staff (healthcare assistants and nurses). INTERVENTION Manualized training, delivered by nonclinical psychology graduates focusing on agitation in severe dementia, underpinned by a palliative care framework. MEASUREMENTS Main outcomes were feasibility of recruitment, data collection, follow-up, and intervention acceptability. We collected resident, family carer, and staff demographics. Staff provided data on resident's agitation, pain, quality of life, and service receipt. Staff reported their sense of competence in dementia care. Family carers reported on satisfaction with end-of-life care. In qualitative interviews, we explored staff and family carers' views on the intervention. RESULTS The target three NHs participated: 28 (49%) residents, 53 (74%) staff, and 11 (85%) family carers who were eligible to participate consented. Eight-four percent of staff attended ≥3 sessions, and we achieved 93% follow-up. We were able to complete quantitative interviews. Staff and family carers reported the intervention and delivery were acceptable and helpful. CONCLUSIONS The intervention was feasible and acceptable indicating a larger trial for effectiveness may be warranted.
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16
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Bindley K, Lewis J, Travaglia J, DiGiacomo M. Social welfare needs of bereaved Australian carers: Implications of insights from palliative care and welfare workers. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:631-642. [PMID: 33704840 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
An individual and psychological emphasis has influenced practice and research on bereavement following informal care provision in the context of life-limiting illness. Consideration of the potential for bereavement to be shaped by intersecting social and structural inequities is needed; and should include an understanding of interactions with government institutions and social policy. This qualitative study employed interpretive description to explore the way in which palliative care workers and welfare sector workers perceive and approach experiences and needs of bereaved carers receiving government income support or housing assistance in Western Sydney, an area associated with recognised socioeconomic disadvantage. A total of 21 palliative care workers within a public health service and welfare workers from two government social welfare services participated in in-depth interviews. Data were analysed using framework analysis. Participants highlighted social welfare policy and related interactions that may impact bereavement, potentially related to financial, housing and employment precariousness. Personal, interpersonal and structural factors perceived to shape the navigation of welfare needs were explored, alongside needed professional and structural changes envisioned by workers. With limited forms of capital, vulnerably positioned carers may encounter difficulties that heighten their precariousness in bereavement. Transactional organisational cultures alongside health and welfare agencies that function in a siloed manner appear to contribute to structural burden for carers, following death due to life-limiting illness. Palliative care and welfare workers also associated elements of their work with bereaved carers with their own experiences of helplessness, frustration and distress. Findings point to a need for the development of interagency strategies in addition to policy underpinned by more nuanced understandings of vulnerability in bereavement, post-caring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Bindley
- Faculty of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Supportive and Palliative Care, Western Sydney Local Health District, Mt Druitt, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanne Lewis
- Faculty of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanne Travaglia
- Faculty of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle DiGiacomo
- Faculty of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
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17
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Guo P, Chukwusa E, Asad M, Nimri O, Arqoub K, Alajarmeh S, Mansour A, Sullivan R, Shamieh O, Harding R. Changing Mortality and Place of Death in Response to Refugee Influx: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Jordan, 2005-2016. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1616-1625. [PMID: 33826858 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Jordan faces complex health care challenges due to refugee influx and an aging population. Palliative care planning and delivery require data to ensure services respond to changing population needs. Objectives: To determine the trend in mortality and place of death in Jordan. Design: Population-based study. Setting/Subjects: Death registry data of adult decedents (n = 143,215), 2005-2016. Measurements: Descriptive statistics examined change in demographic and place of death (categorized as hospital and nonhospital). Binomial logistic regression compared the association between hospital deaths and demographic characteristics in 2008-2010, 2011-2013, and 2014-2016, with 2005-2007. Results: The annual number of deaths increased from 6792 in 2005 to 17,018 in 2016 (151% increase). Hospital was the most common place of death (93.7% of all deaths) in Jordan, and percentage of hospital deaths increased for Jordanian (82.6%-98.8%) and non-Jordanian decedents (88.1%-98.7%). There was an increased likelihood of hospital death among Jordanian decedents who died from nonischemic heart disease (odd ratio [OR]: 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09-1.13, p < 0.001), atherosclerosis (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.08-1.13, p < 0.001), renal failure (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02-1.08, p < 0.001), hemorrhagic fevers (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.06-1.13, p < 0.001), and injury (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.06-1.33, p < 0.001) in the period 2014-2016, compared with 2005-2007. There were similar increases in the likelihood of hospital death among non-Jordanians in 2014-2016 for the following conditions: malignant neoplasms (except leukemia), nonischemic heart disease, atherosclerosis, injury, and HIV, compared with 2005-2007. Conclusions: Country-level palliative care development must respond to both internal (aging) and external (refugee influx) population trends. Universal Health Coverage requires palliative care to move beyond cancer and meet population-specific needs. Community-based services should be prioritized and expanded to care for the patients with nonischemic heart disease, atherosclerosis, renal failure, hemorrhagic fevers, and injury.
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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, United Kingdom.,Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emeka Chukwusa
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Majed Asad
- Non-Communicable Diseases, Jordan Cancer Registry, The Ministry of Health, Amman, Jordan
| | - Omar Nimri
- Non-Communicable Diseases, Jordan Cancer Registry, The Ministry of Health, Amman, Jordan
| | - Kamal Arqoub
- Non-Communicable Diseases, Jordan Cancer Registry, The Ministry of Health, Amman, Jordan
| | - Sawsan Alajarmeh
- Center for Palliative and Cancer Care in Conflict, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Richard Sullivan
- Institute of Cancer Policy, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Omar Shamieh
- Department of Palliative Care, Center for Palliative and Cancer Care in Conflict, King Hussein Cancer Centre, Amman, Jordan.,College of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - 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, United Kingdom
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18
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Cross SH, Kaufman BG, Quest TE, Warraich HJ. National Trends in Hospice Facility Deaths in the United States, 2003-2017. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 61:350-357. [PMID: 32858165 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hospice facilities are increasingly preferred as a location of death, but little is known about the characteristics of patients who die in these facilities in the U.S. OBJECTIVES We sought to examine the trends and factors associated with death in a hospice facility. METHODS Retrospective cross-sectional study using mortality data for years 2003-2017 for deaths attributed to natural causes in the U.S. RESULTS The proportion of natural deaths occurring in hospice facilities increased from 0.2% in 2003 to 8.3% in 2017, resulting in nearly 1.7 million deaths during this time frame. Females had increased odds of hospice facility deaths (odds ratio [OR] = 1.04; 95% CI = 1.04, 1.05). Nonwhite race was associated with lower odds of hospice facility death (black [OR = 0.915; 95% CI = 0.890, 0.940]; Native American [OR = 0.559; 95% CI = 0.515, 0.607]; and Asian [OR = 0.655; 95% CI = 0.601, 0.713]). Being married was associated with hospice facility death (OR = 1.06; 95% CI = 1.04, 1.07). Older age was associated with increased odds of hospice facility death (85 and older [OR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.39, 1.41]). Having at least some college education was associated with increased odds of hospice facility death (OR = 1.13; 95% CI = 1.11, 1.15). Decedents from cardiovascular disease had the lowest odds of hospice facility death (OR = 0.278; 95% CI = 0.274, 0.282). CONCLUSION Hospice facility deaths increased among all patient groups; however, striking differences exist by age, sex, race, marital status, education level, cause of death, and geography. Factors underlying these disparities should be examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Cross
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
| | - Brystana G Kaufman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tammie E Quest
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Haider J Warraich
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Cardiology Section, Department of Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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19
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Mosoiu D, Rogozea L, Landon A, Bisoc A, Tint D. Palliative Care in Heart Failure: A Public Health Emergency. Am J Ther 2020; 27:e204-e223. [PMID: 31688067 DOI: 10.1097/mjt.0000000000001067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative care (PC) is the holistic care of patients with life-limiting illnesses focused on relief of suffering and maximizing quality of life for patients and their families. Patients with heart failure (HF) are the largest group eligible for PC services, but only a small percentage of them receive PC. AREAS OF UNCERTAINTY The optimal content and method of delivery of PC interventions to HF patients in resource-limited countries remain unknown. The integration of PC into existing HF disease management continues to be a challenge. DATA SOURCES PUBMED was searched to identify articles on the topic published in the last 5 years (2014-April 2019). One hundred thirty-six articles were identified-14 articles out of were included in the revision. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES Research concerning PC in HF is still scarce and comes predominantly from developed countries. PC in HF improves patients' and caregivers' outcomes in terms of dyspnea, sleep, depression, communication, coping, and care-giving burden. Specialized home-based PC services have a positive impact on patients' physical and emotional wellbeing while decreasing utilization of medical services. Fatigue, dyspnea, and pain are frequent symptoms. Evidence concerning use of opioids for dyspnea is increasing. Family caregivers offer a considerable amount of care during the disease trajectory. There is often incongruence between the carer's and the patient's wishes in terms of treatment decisions and preferences. Carers should be assessed for risk and supported in their roles in care management and care coordination. CONCLUSIONS Because of the unpredictability of the disease and difficulty in prognostication, PC should be introduced at the point of diagnosis of HF. Basic education in PC needs to be introduced early in the training of cardiology staff, focused on concept definition, differencing PC and terminal care, symptom management, communication, and decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Mosoiu
- Transilvania University of Brasov, Faculty of Medicine, Brasov, Romania.,Education and National Development Department, Hospice Casa Sperantei, Brasov, Romania
| | - Liliana Rogozea
- Transilvania University of Brasov, Faculty of Medicine, Brasov, Romania
| | | | - Alina Bisoc
- Transilvania University of Brasov, Faculty of Medicine, Brasov, Romania.,Emergency County Clinical Hospital, Brasov, Romania; and
| | - Diana Tint
- Transilvania University of Brasov, Faculty of Medicine, Brasov, Romania.,ICCO Clinics, Brasov, Romania
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20
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Gott M, Morgan T, Williams L. Gender and palliative care: a call to arms. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2020; 14:2632352420957997. [PMID: 33134926 PMCID: PMC7576896 DOI: 10.1177/2632352420957997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been a systematic and largely unconscious neglect of gender in palliative care research, practice and policy. This is despite significant, although previously uncollated, evidence that gender influences almost all aspects of end-of-life preferences, experiences and care. The social situations of women, transgender people and men often differ from one another while also intersecting in complex ways with sex differences rooted in biology. If palliative care is to meet its aspiration of providing universal benefit, it urgently needs to address a range of gender inequalities currently (re)produced at the level of the laboratory all the way through to government departments. In this call to arms, we spotlight specific instances where gender inequalities have been documented, for example, regarding end-of-life caregiving, end-of-life intervention and palliative care access and benefit. We highlight how gender inequalities intersect with other social determinants of health including ethnicity and economic status to exacerbate situations of marginality. We conclude by offering some practical steps that can be taken to support the discipline to adopt a more critical gender lens to support more equitable research, policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merryn Gott
- Professor, School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical
and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019,
Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tessa Morgan
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care and
Cambridge Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge,
UK
| | - Lisa Williams
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health
Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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21
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Kelly M, O'Brien KM, Hannigan A. Specialist palliative cancer care in acute hospitals and place of death: a population study. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2020; 12:e94-e102. [PMID: 32917655 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2020-002232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study compares the characteristics and place of death of patients with cancer receiving specialist palliative care in acute hospitals with those who do not. METHODS All patients with incident invasive cancer in Ireland (1994-2016 inclusive), excluding non-melanoma skin cancer, who attended a cancer centre and died in 2016 were identified from cancer registry data. Patients were categorised based on a diagnosis code 'Encounter for palliative care' from linked hospital episode data. Place of death was categorised from death certificate data. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, χ2 tests and logistic regression. RESULTS Of n=4103 decedents identified, 62% had a hospital-based palliative care encounter in the year preceding death. Age (p<0.001), marital status (p=0.017), deprivation index (p<0.001) and health board region (p=0.008) were independent predictors of having a palliative care encounter. Place of death differed by palliative care encounter group: 45% of those with an encounter died in hospital versus 50% without an encounter, 33% vs 16% died in a hospice and 18% vs 28% died at home (p<0.001). CONCLUSION Almost two-thirds of patients with cancer who attended a cancer centre and died in 2016 had a palliative care encounter. They were younger, less likely to be married and more likely to be from deprived areas. Having accounted for sociodemographic factors, there was evidence of regional variation in receiving care. Demographic and clinical factors and the provision of health services in a region need to be considered together when assessing end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ailish Hannigan
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 T9PX, Ireland.,Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 T9PX, Ireland
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22
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Xu S, Liu M, Shin O, Parker V, Hernandez R. Differences of Quality in End-of-Life Care across Settings: Results from the U.S. National Health and Aging Trends Study of Medicare Beneficiaries. J Palliat Med 2020; 23:1198-1203. [PMID: 32155358 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: More than 2.5 million older Americans die each year. Place of residence in which dying patients receive care plays a crucial role in the quality of end-of-life (EOL) care. Objective: This study aimed to compare proxies' overall rating and ratings for 13 indicators across five major domains of EOL care by place of residence in the last month of decedents' lives. Design: We used data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study, a nationally representative study of Medicare beneficiaries at age 65 years and older in the United States. Setting/Subjects: Analyses included proxies (N = 1336) of Medicare beneficiaries who passed away between 2013 and 2016. Proxies were categorized into four groups, depending on place of residence in the last month of life and the involvement of hospice. Measurements: Quality of EOL care was assessed using questions modeled after quality of EOL care instruments. We adjusted for demographic data of decedents and proxies. Results: Hospice recipients, regardless of setting, were more likely to experience pain and talk about religion in the last month of life; families of patients without hospice in residential care settings were more likely to report not being kept informed; proxies of patients living in private residences with hospice care reported higher overall ratings. Among hospice recipients, those living in private residences were more likely to be treated with respect. Conclusions: Disparities exist across settings and in overall ratings for quality of EOL domains-particularly, the subdomains of symptom management, decision making, and spiritual needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Xu
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Mangdong Liu
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Oejin Shin
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Vanessa Parker
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Rosalba Hernandez
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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23
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Reeves E, Schweighoffer R, Liebig B. An investigation of the challenges to coordination at the interface of primary and specialized palliative care services in Switzerland: A qualitative interview study. J Interprof Care 2020; 35:21-27. [PMID: 32101081 DOI: 10.1080/13561820.2020.1724085] [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] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Good coordination of healthcare services is vital for ensuring health cost efficiency and high-quality care for patients. It is especially important in the context of palliative care as services are often highly fragmented due to a combination of diverse professional groups, organizations, and approaches to care. However, the coordination of services in this field is often evaluated as insufficient. Little is known about the challenges to coordination in this sector in Switzerland. The present study addresses this gap in research by investigating the challenges to coordination at the interface of palliative care services in Switzerland. Interviews (n = 24) with 38 healthcare practitioners working in palliative care in four cantons (Basel-City, Lucerne, Ticino, and Vaud) form the basis for this investigation. The selected cantons not only represent French, Italian, and German language regions of Switzerland but also represent diverse rural, urban, and historical contexts. Expert interviews are analyzed using structural content analysis. Three clusters of challenges to coordination were identified in the data: (1) organizational challenges to coordination, which relate to explicit forms of coordination; (2) relational challenges to coordination; and (3) structural challenges to coordination, which relate to implicit forms of coordination. The study reveals a need for better financial support for coordination in palliative care and a stronger focus on interprofessional coordination in educating professionals in palliative care. Future research on how to further foster good team coordination practices between primary and specialized palliative services merits further investigation. Since these findings are indicative of areas for improvement for coordination at the interface of Swiss palliative care services, they are of particular interest for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and researchers involved in the evolution of coordinative practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Reeves
- Fakultät Für Psychologie, Universität Basel , Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Brigitte Liebig
- Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz FHNW, Hochschule Für Angewandte Psychologie , Olten, Switzerland
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24
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Stajduhar KI. Provocations on privilege in palliative care: Are we meeting our core mandate? PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2019.1702334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kelli I. Stajduhar
- School of Nursing, Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
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25
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Sobanski PZ, Alt-Epping B, Currow DC, Goodlin SJ, Grodzicki T, Hogg K, Janssen DJA, Johnson MJ, Krajnik M, Leget C, Martínez-Sellés M, Moroni M, Mueller PS, Ryder M, Simon ST, Stowe E, Larkin PJ. Palliative care for people living with heart failure: European Association for Palliative Care Task Force expert position statement. Cardiovasc Res 2019; 116:12-27. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvz200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Contrary to common perception, modern palliative care (PC) is applicable to all people with an incurable disease, not only cancer. PC is appropriate at every stage of disease progression, when PC needs emerge. These needs can be of physical, emotional, social, or spiritual nature. This document encourages the use of validated assessment tools to recognize such needs and ascertain efficacy of management. PC interventions should be provided alongside cardiologic management. Treating breathlessness is more effective, when cardiologic management is supported by PC interventions. Treating other symptoms like pain or depression requires predominantly PC interventions. Advance Care Planning aims to ensure that the future treatment and care the person receives is concordant with their personal values and goals, even after losing decision-making capacity. It should include also disease specific aspects, such as modification of implantable device activity at the end of life. The Whole Person Care concept describes the inseparability of the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of the human being. Addressing psychological and spiritual needs, together with medical treatment, maintains personal integrity and promotes emotional healing. Most PC concerns can be addressed by the usual care team, supported by a PC specialist if needed. During dying, the persons’ needs may change dynamically and intensive PC is often required. Following the death of a person, bereavement services benefit loved ones. The authors conclude that the inclusion of PC within the regular clinical framework for people with heart failure results in a substantial improvement in quality of life as well as comfort and dignity whilst dying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Z Sobanski
- Palliative Care Unit and Competence Centre, Department of Internal Medicine, Spital Schwyz, Waldeggstrasse 10, 6430 Schwyz, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Alt-Epping
- Department of Palliative Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen Georg August University, Robertkochstrasse 40, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - David C Currow
- University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Ultimo, Sydney, 2007 New South Wales, Australia
- Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah J Goodlin
- Department of Medicine-Geriatrics, Portland Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Patient-cantered Education and Research, 3710 SW US Veterans Rd, Portland, 97239 OR, USA
| | - Tomasz Grodzicki
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gerontology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-531 Kraków, Śniadeckich 10, Poland
| | | | - Daisy J A Janssen
- Department of Research and Education, CIRO, Hornerheide 1, 6085 NM Horn, The Netherlands
- Department of Health Services Research, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Health Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Duboisdomein 30, 6229 GT, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Miriam J Johnson
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Allam Medical Building University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Małgorzata Krajnik
- Department of Palliative Care, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Skłodowskiej-Curie 9, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Carlo Leget
- University of Humanistic Studies, Chair Care Ethics, Kromme Nieuwegracht 29, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Manuel Martínez-Sellés
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Universidad Europea, Universidad Complutense, C/ Dr. Esquerdo, 46, 28007 Madrid, Spain
| | - Matteo Moroni
- S.S.D. Cure Palliative, sede di Ravenna, AUSL Romagna, Via De Gasperi 8, 48121 Ravenna, Italy
| | - Paul S Mueller
- Mayo Clinic Health System, Mayo Clinic Collage of Medicine and Science, 700 West Avennue South, La Crosse, 54601 Wisconsin, USA
| | - Mary Ryder
- School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Ireland St. Vincent’s University Hospital Dublin,Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Steffen T Simon
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Faculty of the Universityof Cologne, Köln, Germany
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Cologne/Bonn (CIO), Medical Faculty ofthe University of Cologne, Kerpener Strasse 62, 50924 Köln, Germany
| | | | - Philip J Larkin
- Service des soins palliatifs Lausanne University Hospital, CHUV, Centre hospitalier univeritaire vaudois, Lausanne Switzerland
- Institut universitaire de formation et de recherche en soins – IUFRS, Faculté de viologie et de medicine – FBM, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Cross SH, Kamal AH, Taylor DH, Warraich HJ. Hospice Use Among Patients with Heart Failure. Card Fail Rev 2019; 5:93-98. [PMID: 31179019 PMCID: PMC6545999 DOI: 10.15420/cfr.2019.2.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite its many benefits, hospice care is underused for patients with heart failure. This paper discusses the factors contributing to this underuse and offers recommendations to optimise use for patients with heart failure and proposes metrics to optimise quality of hospice care for this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Cross
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University Durham, NC, US
| | - Arif H Kamal
- Duke Cancer Institute Durham, NC, US.,Duke Fuqua School of Business, Duke University Durham, NC, US
| | - Donald H Taylor
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University Durham, NC, US.,Margolis Center for Health Policy, Duke University Durham, NC, US.,Duke Clinical Research Institute Durham, NC, US
| | - Haider J Warraich
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center Durham, NC, US
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Davies JM, Sleeman KE, Leniz J, Wilson R, Higginson IJ, Verne J, Maddocks M, Murtagh FEM. Socioeconomic position and use of healthcare in the last year of life: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Med 2019; 16:e1002782. [PMID: 31013279 PMCID: PMC6478269 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low socioeconomic position (SEP) is recognized as a risk factor for worse health outcomes. How socioeconomic factors influence end-of-life care, and the magnitude of their effect, is not understood. This review aimed to synthesise and quantify the associations between measures of SEP and use of healthcare in the last year of life. METHODS AND FINDINGS MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and ASSIA databases were searched without language restrictions from inception to 1 February 2019. We included empirical observational studies from high-income countries reporting an association between SEP (e.g., income, education, occupation, private medical insurance status, housing tenure, housing quality, or area-based deprivation) and place of death, plus use of acute care, specialist and nonspecialist end-of-life care, advance care planning, and quality of care in the last year of life. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). The overall strength and direction of associations was summarised, and where sufficient comparable data were available, adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were pooled and dose-response meta-regression performed. A total of 209 studies were included (mean NOS quality score of 4.8); 112 high- to medium-quality observational studies were used in the meta-synthesis and meta-analysis (53.5% from North America, 31.0% from Europe, 8.5% from Australia, and 7.0% from Asia). Compared to people living in the least deprived neighbourhoods, people living in the most deprived neighbourhoods were more likely to die in hospital versus home (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.23-1.38, p < 0.001), to receive acute hospital-based care in the last 3 months of life (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.08-1.25, p < 0.001), and to not receive specialist palliative care (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.07-1.19, p < 0.001). For every quintile increase in area deprivation, hospital versus home death was more likely (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.05-1.08, p < 0.001), and not receiving specialist palliative care was more likely (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.02-1.05, p < 0.001). Compared to the most educated (qualifications or years of education completed), the least educated people were more likely to not receive specialist palliative care (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.07-1.49, p = 0.005). The observational nature of the studies included and the focus on high-income countries limit the conclusions of this review. CONCLUSIONS In high-income countries, low SEP is a risk factor for hospital death as well as other indicators of potentially poor-quality end-of-life care, with evidence of a dose response indicating that inequality persists across the social stratum. These findings should stimulate widespread efforts to reduce socioeconomic inequality towards the end of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M. Davies
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine E. Sleeman
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Javiera Leniz
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Wilson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Irene J. Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julia Verne
- Health Intelligence, Public Health England, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Maddocks
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fliss E. M. Murtagh
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom
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Integration of oncology and palliative care: a Lancet Oncology Commission. Lancet Oncol 2018; 19:e588-e653. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(18)30415-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 297] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Sleeman KE, Leniz J, Higginson IJ, Bristowe K. Is end-of-life care a priority for policymakers? Qualitative documentary analysis of health care strategies. Palliat Med 2018; 32:1474-1486. [PMID: 30016595 PMCID: PMC6158687 DOI: 10.1177/0269216318786333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prioritisation of end-of-life care by policymakers has been the subject of extensive rhetoric, but little scrutiny. In England, responsibility for improving health and care lies with 152 regional Health and Wellbeing Boards. AIM To understand the extent to which Health and Wellbeing Boards have identified and prioritised end-of-life care needs and their plans for improvement. DESIGN Qualitative documentary analysis of Health and Wellbeing Strategies. Summative content analysis to quantify key concepts and identify themes. DATA SOURCES Strategies were identified from Local Authority web pages and systematically searched to identify relevant content. RESULTS In total, 150 strategies were identified. End-of-life care was mentioned in 78 (52.0%) and prioritised in 6 (4.0%). Four themes emerged: (1) clinical context - in 43/78 strategies end-of-life care was mentioned within a specific clinical context, most often ageing and dementia; (2) aims and aspirations - 31 strategies identified local needs and/or quantifiable aims, most related to the place of death; (3) narrative thread - the connection between need, aim and planned intervention was disjointed, just six strategies included all three components; and (4) focus of evidence - where cited, evidence related to evidence of need, not evidence for effective interventions. CONCLUSION Half of Health and Wellbeing Strategies mention end-of-life care, few prioritise it and none cite evidence for effective interventions. The absence of connection between need, aim and intervention is concerning. Future research should explore whether and how strategies have impacted on local populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Sleeman
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Javiera Leniz
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Katherine Bristowe
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King’s College London, London, UK
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30
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Wentlandt K, Toupin P, Novosedlik N, Le LW, Zimmermann C, Kaya E. Language Used by Health Care Professionals to Describe Dying at an Acute Care Hospital. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 56:337-343. [PMID: 29792980 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Clinicians often rely on documentation to relay information, and this remains the mainstay of interprofessional communication regarding patient care. However, there has been scant research focused on clinicians' documentation of dying in hospital and how this is communicated to other team members in patient charting. OBJECTIVES To understand the language used to describe the deterioration and death of patients in an acute academic tertiary care center and to identify whether patient diagnoses or palliative care (PC) involvement was associated with clearer descriptions of this process. METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of the final admission of 150 patients who died on an inpatient internal medicine unit. Conventional and summative content analysis was performed of the language used to describe, either directly or indirectly, that the patient's death was imminent. RESULTS Of the 150 deaths, the median age was 79.5 (range 22-101), 58% were males, and 69% spoke English. A total of 45% of deaths were from cancer, and 66% occurred with prior PC team involvement. There was no documentation of the dying process in 18 (12%) charts. In the remainder, clinicians' documentation of imminent death fell into three categories: 1) identification of the current state using specific labels; for example, dying (24.7%) or end of life (15.3%), or less specific language, unwell or doing poorly (6.0%); 2) predicting the future state using specific or more vague predictions; for example, hours to days (7.3%) or poor or guarded prognosis (26.0%); and 3) using care provided to the patient to imply patient status; for example, PC (49.3%) or comfort care (28.7%). PC involvement, but not a malignant diagnosis, was associated with more frequent use of specific language to describe the current state (P = 0.004) or future state (P = 0.02). CONCLUSION Death and dying in hospital is inadequately documented and often described using unclear and vague language. PC involvement is associated with clearer language to describe this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Wentlandt
- Department of Supportive Care, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Philippe Toupin
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Palliative Care, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Natalia Novosedlik
- Hospice Palliative Care and Caregiver Wellness, Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa W Le
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Department of Supportive Care, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ebru Kaya
- Department of Supportive Care, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Moine S, Murray SA, Boyd K, Engels Y, Mitchell G. Palliative care and the endless cycle of serious health-related suffering. Lancet 2018; 392:471-472. [PMID: 30129451 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)31195-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Moine
- Health Education and Practices Laboratory, University of Paris 13, Bobigny 93017, France; SimUSanté, Amiens University Hospital, Amiens, France.
| | - Scott A Murray
- Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Kirsty Boyd
- Usher Institute of Population Health Sciences and Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Yvonne Engels
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain, Palliative Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Geoff Mitchell
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Science, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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32
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Geographical distribution and evolution of deaths in hospitals in Spain, 1996–2015. Rev Clin Esp 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rceng.2018.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Jiménez-Puente A, García Alegría J. Geographical distribution and evolution of deaths in hospitals in Spain, 1996-2015. Rev Clin Esp 2018; 218:285-292. [PMID: 29739618 DOI: 10.1016/j.rce.2018.03.015] [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] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The location where death occurs varies widely among societies. The aim of this study was to describe the evolution in the hospital mortality rate (HMR) in Spain over the course of 20years and its distribution by province during a more recent period and to explore its relationship with potential explanatory variables. METHODS This was an ecological study. The population mortality rates were obtained from the Natural Population Movement (Movimiento Natural de la Población), and the hospital mortality rates were obtained from the Specialised Care Information System (Sistema de Información en Atención Especializada), which includes information from all hospitals in Spain. We calculated the mortality rates for patients who were not surveyed and the HMR at the national level between 1996 and 2015 and for provinces between 2013 and 2015. The relationship between the provincial distribution of HMR and various demographic, socioeconomic and healthcare variables were analysed through simple and multiple linear regression. RESULTS The HMR in Spain increased from 49% in 1996 to 56% in 2007, having remained stable from 1996 to 2015. The variation among provinces was 40% to 70%. The multivariate analysis showed a higher HMR in the less rural provinces and in those with a larger availability of hospital beds. CONCLUSIONS There is considerable provincial heterogeneity in Spain in terms of the probability of dying in hospital or at home. This result could be partly explained by demographics (percentage of rural population) and the healthcare structure (number of hospital beds per population).
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Affiliation(s)
- A Jiménez-Puente
- Unidad de Evaluación, Agencia Sanitaria Costa del Sol, Marbella, Málaga, España; Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), España.
| | - J García Alegría
- Área de Medicina, Agencia Sanitaria Costa del Sol, Marbella, Málaga, España; Red de Investigación en Servicios de Salud en Enfermedades Crónicas (REDISSEC), España
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Butler C, Brigden C, Gage H, Williams P, Holdsworth L, Greene K, Wee B, Barclay S, Wilson P. Optimum hospice at home services for end-of-life care: protocol of a mixed-methods study employing realist evaluation. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e021192. [PMID: 29769257 PMCID: PMC5961564 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-021192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hospice at home (HAH) services aim to enable patients to be cared for and die in their place of choice, if that is at home, and to achieve a 'good death'. There is a considerable range of HAH services operating in England. The published evidence focuses on evaluations of individual services which vary considerably, and there is a lack of consistency in terms of the outcome measures reported. The evidence, therefore, does not provide generalisable information, so the question 'What are the features of hospice at home service models that work, for whom, and under what circumstances?' remains unanswered. The study aims to answer this question. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a mixed-methods study in three phases informed by realist evaluation methodology. All HAH services in England will be invited to participate in a telephone survey to enable the development of a typology of services. In the second phase, case study sites representing the different service types will collect patient data and recruit carers, service managers and commissioners to gather quantitative and qualitative data about service provision and outcomes. A third phase will synthesise and refine the results through consensus workshops. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The first survey phase has university ethics approval and the second phase, Integrated Research Application System (IRAS) and Health Research Authority (HRA) approval (IRAS ID:205986, REC:17/LO/0880); the third phase does not require ethics approval. Dissemination will be facilitated by project coapplicants with established connections to national policy-making forums, in addition to publications, conference presentations and reports targeted to service providers and commissioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Butler
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | | | - Heather Gage
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Peter Williams
- Department of Mathematics, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Laura Holdsworth
- Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Kay Greene
- National Association for Hospice at Home, Fareham, UK
| | | | - Stephen Barclay
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Patricia Wilson
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
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Robinson J, Gott M, Frey R, Ingleton C. Circumstances of hospital admissions in palliative care: A cross-sectional survey of patients admitted to hospital with palliative care needs. Palliat Med 2018; 32:1030-1036. [PMID: 29400598 DOI: 10.1177/0269216318756221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND On average, people will experience 2.28 hospital admissions in the last year of life with the likelihood of a hospital admission increasing in the last 2 weeks of life. Reducing hospital admissions has become a focus for high-income countries as they work to manage the financial implications of an ageing population. However, the circumstances by which patients with palliative care needs are admitted to hospital remain poorly understood. AIM To explore the circumstances of hospital admissions for patients with palliative care needs. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey design using face-to-face questionnaires. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS In total, 116 patients aged >18 years admitted to a tertiary hospital with palliative care needs. RESULTS Those with a non-cancer diagnosis and those aged over 75 years were less likely to have hospice involved prior to the admission ( x2 (1, n = 116) = 10.19, p = 0.00). Few patients recognised community services as having a role in enabling them to remain at home. Those with cancer placed a significantly higher priority on receiving information about their illness ( t(114) = 2.03, p = 0.04) and receiving tests and investigations ( t(114) = 2.37, p = 0.02) in hospital. CONCLUSION This study has demonstrated the complexity of hospital admissions in palliative care. Further research is needed to explore patient perceptions of care at home and the role of community services to enable them to remain at home. Understanding the motivation to come to hospital in the context of an incurable illness and limited treatment options may help to inform the development of services that can enable better care at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackie Robinson
- 1 School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,2 Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Merryn Gott
- 1 School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rosemary Frey
- 1 School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Christine Ingleton
- 3 The School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Abstract
Background The rate of homeless mortality is known to be significantly below the national average, with mortality rates varying geographically. This study aims to look at the rates and causes of homeless mortality within East London. Question To characterise homeless mortality of patients registered in two specialist homeless practices, between 2001 and 2016 in the London boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Hackney, by age at death and cause of death. Study Design A retrospective study of general practice electronic patient records. Methods Electronic patient records across two general practice surgeries specialising in care for the homeless in East London were examined and their mortality data extracted. Results Two hundred and three deaths recorded in the two general practice surgeries were examined. The average age at death was 47 years, with the highest numbers of deaths being attributed to substance misuse, liver disease and cardiac-related deaths. Those dying of cardiac-related causes died at an average of 51, those dying of liver-related causes died at an average age of 49 years and those dying from substance misuse died at an average age of 38. Conclusions Those dying of substance misuse-related causes died much younger than the average homeless patient did.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Hassanally
- Health E1, The Greenhouse, London, UK.,Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Miqdad Asaria
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, York, UK
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37
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Guo P, Dzingina M, Firth AM, Davies JM, Douiri A, O’Brien SM, Pinto C, Pask S, Higginson IJ, Eagar K, Murtagh FEM. Development and validation of a casemix classification to predict costs of specialist palliative care provision across inpatient hospice, hospital and community settings in the UK: a study protocol. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e020071. [PMID: 29550781 PMCID: PMC5879599 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-020071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Provision of palliative care is inequitable with wide variations across conditions and settings in the UK. Lack of a standard way to classify by case complexity is one of the principle obstacles to addressing this. We aim to develop and validate a casemix classification to support the prediction of costs of specialist palliative care provision. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Phase I: A cohort study to determine the variables and potential classes to be included in a casemix classification. Data are collected from clinicians in palliative care services across inpatient hospice, hospital and community settings on: patient demographics, potential complexity/casemix criteria and patient-level resource use. Cost predictors are derived using multivariate regression and then incorporated into a classification using classification and regression trees. Internal validation will be conducted by bootstrapping to quantify any optimism in the predictive performance (calibration and discrimination) of the developed classification. Phase II: A mixed-methods cohort study across settings for external validation of the classification developed in phase I. Patient and family caregiver data will be collected longitudinally on demographics, potential complexity/casemix criteria and patient-level resource use. This will be triangulated with data collected from clinicians on potential complexity/casemix criteria and patient-level resource use, and with qualitative interviews with patients and caregivers about care provision across difference settings. The classification will be refined on the basis of its performance in the validation data set. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has been approved by the National Health Service Health Research Authority Research Ethics Committee. The results are expected to be disseminated in 2018 through papers for publication in major palliative care journals; policy briefs for clinicians, commissioning leads and policy makers; and lay summaries for patients and public. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN90752212.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Guo
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and
Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s
College London, London,
UK
| | - Mendwas Dzingina
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and
Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s
College London, London,
UK
| | - Alice M Firth
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and
Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s
College London, London,
UK
| | - Joanna M Davies
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and
Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s
College London, London,
UK
| | - Abdel Douiri
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health
Sciences, King’s College London,
London, UK
| | - Suzanne M O’Brien
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and
Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s
College London, London,
UK
| | - Cathryn Pinto
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and
Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s
College London, London,
UK
| | - Sophie Pask
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and
Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s
College London, London,
UK
| | - Irene J Higginson
- Department of Palliative Care, Policy and
Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s
College London, London,
UK
| | - Kathy Eagar
- University of Wollongong, Australian Health Services Research Institute, Centre for
Health Service Development, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Fliss E M Murtagh
- Wolfson Palliative Care Research Centre, Hull
York Medical School, University of Hull,
Hull, UK
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38
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Wentlandt K, Weiss A, O'Connor E, Kaya E. Palliative and end of life care in solid organ transplantation. Am J Transplant 2017; 17:3008-3019. [PMID: 28976070 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.14522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Revised: 09/17/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Palliative care is an interprofessional approach that focuses on quality of life of patients who are facing life-threatening illness. Palliative care is consistently associated with improvements in advance care planning, patient and caregiver satisfaction, quality of life, symptom burden, and lower healthcare utilization. Most transplant patients have advanced chronic disease, significant symptom burden, and mortality awaiting transplant. Transplantation introduces new risks including perioperative death, organ rejection, infection, renal insufficiency, and malignancy. Numerous publications over the last decade identify that palliative care is well-suited to support these patients and their caregivers, yet access to palliative care and research within this population are lacking. This review describes palliative care and summarizes existing research supporting palliative intervention in advanced organ failure and transplant populations. A proposed model to provide palliative care in parallel with disease-directed therapy in a transplant program has the potential to improve symptom burden, quality of life, and healthcare utilization. Further studies are needed to elucidate specific benefits of palliative care for this population. In addition, there is a tremendous need for education, specifically for clinicians, patients, and families, to improve understanding of palliative care and its benefits for patients with advanced disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Wentlandt
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Supportive Care, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Multi-Organ Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - A Weiss
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Supportive Care, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - E O'Connor
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Supportive Care, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - E Kaya
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Supportive Care, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Higginson IJ, Daveson BA, Morrison RS, Yi D, Meier D, Smith M, Ryan K, McQuillan R, Johnston BM, Normand C. Social and clinical determinants of preferences and their achievement at the end of life: prospective cohort study of older adults receiving palliative care in three countries. BMC Geriatr 2017; 17:271. [PMID: 29169346 PMCID: PMC5701500 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-017-0648-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Achieving choice is proposed as a quality marker. But little is known about what influences preferences especially among older adults. We aimed to determine and compare, across three countries, factors associated with preferences for place of death and treatment, and actual site of death. Methods We recruited adults aged ≥65-years from hospital-based multiprofessional palliative care services in London, Dublin, New York, and followed them for >17 months. All services offered consultation on hospital wards, support for existing clinical teams, outpatient services and received funding from their National Health Service and/or relevant Insurance reimbursements. The New York service additionally had 10 inpatient beds. All worked with and referred patients to local hospices. Face-to-face interviews recorded most and least preferred place of death, treatment goal priorities, demographic and clinical information using validated questionnaires. Multivariable and multilevel analyses assessed associated factors. Results One hundred and thirty eight older adults (64 London, 59 Dublin, 15 New York) were recruited, 110 died during follow-up. Home was the most preferred place of death (77/138, 56%) followed by inpatient palliative care/hospice units (22%). Hospital was least preferred (35/138, 25%), followed by nursing home (20%) and home (16%); hospice/palliative care unit was rarely least preferred (4%). Most respondents prioritised improving quality of life, either alone (54%), or equal with life extension (39%); few (3%) chose only life extension. There were no significant differences between countries. Main associates with home preference were: cancer diagnosis (OR 3.72, 95% CI 1.40–9.90) and living with someone (OR 2.19, 1.33–3.62). Adults with non-cancer diagnoses were more likely to prefer palliative care units (OR 2.39, 1.14–5.03). Conversely, functional independence (OR 1.05, 1.04–1.06) and valuing quality of life (OR 3.11, 2.89–3.36) were associated with dying at home. There was a mismatch between preferences and achievements – of 85 people who preferred home or a palliative care unit, 19 (25%) achieved their first preference. Conclusion Although home is the most common first preference, it is polarising and for 16% it is the least preferred. Inpatient palliative care unit emerges as the second most preferred place, is rarely least preferred, and yet was often not achieved for those who wanted to die there. Factors affecting stated preferences and met preferences differ. Available services, notably community support and palliative care units, require expansion. Contrasting actual place of death with capacity for meeting patient and family needs may be a better quality indicator than simply ‘achieved preferences’. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12877-017-0648-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene J Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute Of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London, and King's College Hospital, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK.
| | - Barbara A Daveson
- Cicely Saunders Institute Of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London, and King's College Hospital, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
| | - R Sean Morrison
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029-6574, USA
| | - Deokhee Yi
- Cicely Saunders Institute Of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London, and King's College Hospital, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK.
| | - Diane Meier
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029-6574, USA
| | - Melinda Smith
- Cicely Saunders Institute Of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London, and King's College Hospital, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
| | - Karen Ryan
- Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Eccles Street, Dublin 7, Ireland
| | | | - Bridget M Johnston
- The Centre of Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, Room 0.21, 3-4 Foster Place, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Charles Normand
- The Centre of Health Policy and Management, Trinity College Dublin, Room 0.21, 3-4 Foster Place, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Fleming J, Calloway R, Perrels A, Farquhar M, Barclay S, Brayne C. Dying comfortably in very old age with or without dementia in different care settings - a representative "older old" population study. BMC Geriatr 2017; 17:222. [PMID: 28978301 PMCID: PMC5628473 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-017-0605-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comfort is frequently ranked important for a good death. Although rising numbers of people are dying in very old age, many with dementia, little is known about symptom control for "older old" people or whether care in different settings enables them to die comfortably. This study aims to examine, in a population-representative sample, associations between factors potentially related to reported comfort during very old people's final illness: physical and cognitive disability, place of care and transitions in their final illness, and place of death. METHODS Retrospective analyses linked three data sources for n = 180 deceased study participants (68% women) aged 79-107 in a representative population-based UK study, the Cambridge City over-75s Cohort (CC75C): i) prospective in-vivo dementia diagnoses and cognitive assessments, ii) certified place of death records, iii) data from interviews with relatives/close carers including symptoms and "How comfortable was he/she in his/her final illness?" RESULTS In the last year of life 83% were disabled in basic activities, 37% had moderate/severe dementia and 45% minimal/mild dementia or cognitive impairment. Regardless of dementia/cognitive status, three-quarters died following a final illness lasting a week or longer. 37%, 44%, 13% and 7% of the deceased were described as having been "very comfortable", "comfortable", "fairly comfortable" or "uncomfortable" respectively during their final illness, but reported symptoms were common: distress, pain, depression and delirium or confusion each affected 40-50%. For only 10% were no symptoms reported. There were ≥4-fold increased odds of dying comfortably associated with being in a care home during the final illness, dying in a care home, and with staying in place (dying at what death certificates record as "usual address"), whether home or care home, compared with hospital, but no significant association with disability or dementia/cognitive status, regardless of adjustment. CONCLUSIONS These findings are consistent with reports that care homes can provide care akin to hospice for the very old and support an approach of supporting residents to stay in their care home or own home if possible. Findings on reported high prevalence of multiple symptoms can inform policy and training to improve older old people's end-of-life care in all settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Fleming
- Cambridge Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0SR UK
- Department of Public Health & Primary Cambridge, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rowan Calloway
- Cambridge Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0SR UK
- North East Thames Foundation School, London, UK
| | - Anouk Perrels
- Cambridge Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0SR UK
- Faculty of Medicine, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Morag Farquhar
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Stephen Barclay
- Cambridge Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0SR UK
- Department of Public Health & Primary Cambridge, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health & Primary Cambridge, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carol Brayne
- Cambridge Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, CB2 0SR UK
- Department of Public Health & Primary Cambridge, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Sleeman KE, Perera G, Stewart R, Higginson IJ. Predictors of emergency department attendance by people with dementia in their last year of life: Retrospective cohort study using linked clinical and administrative data. Alzheimers Dement 2017; 14:20-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jalz.2017.06.2267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E. Sleeman
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Policy and Rehabilitation King's College London London United Kingdom
| | - Gayan Perera
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London United Kingdom
| | - Robert Stewart
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience King's College London London United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust London United Kingdom
| | - Irene J. Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Policy and Rehabilitation King's College London London United Kingdom
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The care experiences of patients who die in residential hospice: A qualitative analysis of the last three months of life from the views of bereaved caregivers. Palliat Support Care 2017; 16:421-431. [PMID: 28660841 DOI: 10.1017/s147895151700058x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the increasing prominence of residential hospices as a place of death and that, in many regards, this specialized care represents a gold standard, little is known about the care experience in this setting. Using qualitative survey data, we examined the positive and negative perceptions of care in hospices and in other prior settings. METHOD Qualitative comments were extracted from the CaregiverVoice survey completed by bereaved caregivers of decedents who had died in 16 residential hospices in Ontario, Canada. On this survey, caregivers reported what was good and bad about the services provided during the last three months of life as separate open-text questions. A constant-comparison method was employed to derive themes from the responses. RESULTS A total of 550 caregivers completed the survey, 94% (517) of whom commented on either something good (84%) and/or bad (49%) about the care experience. In addition to residential hospice, the majority of patients represented also received palliative care in the home (69%) or hospital (59%). Overall, most positive statements were about care in hospice (71%), whereas the negative statements tended to refer to other settings (81%). The hospice experience was found to exemplify care that was compassionate and holistic, in a comforting environment, offered by providers who were personable, dedicated, and informative. These humanistic qualities of care and the extent of support were generally seen to be lacking from the other settings. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Our examination of the good and bad aspects of palliative care received is unique in qualitatively exploring palliative care experiences across multiple settings, and specifically that in hospices. Investigation of these perspectives affirmed the elements of care that dying patients and their family caregivers most value and that the hospices were largely effective at addressing. These findings highlight the need for reinforcing these qualities in other end-of-life settings to create comforting and supportive environments.
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Bainbridge D, Seow H. Palliative Care Experience in the Last 3 Months of Life: A Quantitative Comparison of Care Provided in Residential Hospices, Hospitals, and the Home From the Perspectives of Bereaved Caregivers. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2017; 35:456-463. [PMID: 28610431 PMCID: PMC5794103 DOI: 10.1177/1049909117713497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study captured the end-of-life care experiences across various settings from bereaved caregivers of individuals who died in residential hospice. Methods: A retrospective, observational design using the CaregiverVoice survey with bereaved caregivers of patients in 22 hospices in Ontario, Canada. The survey assessed various dimensions of the patient’s care experiences across multiple care settings in the last 3 months of life. Results: A total of 1153 caregivers responded to the survey (44% response rate). In addition to hospice care, caregivers reported that 74% of patients received home care, 61% had a hospitalization, 42% received care at a cancer center, and 10% lived in a nursing home. Most caregivers (84%-89%) rated the addressing of each support domain (relief of physical pain, relief of other symptoms, spiritual support, and emotional support) by hospice as either “excellent” or “very good.” These proportions were less favorable for home care (40%-47%), cancer center (46%-54%), and hospital (37%-48%). Significantly, better experiences were reported for the last week of life where hospice was considered the main setting of care, opposed to other settings (P < .0001 across domains). Overall, across settings pain management tended to be the highest-rated domain and spiritual support the lowest. Conclusion: This is one of few quantitative examinations of the care experience of patients who accessed multiple care settings in the last months of life and died in a specialized setting such as residential hospice. These findings emphasize the importance of replicating the hospice approach in institutional and home settings, including greater attention to emotional and spiritual dimensions of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daryl Bainbridge
- 1 Department of Oncology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,2 Juravinski Cancer Centre, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hsien Seow
- 1 Department of Oncology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,2 Juravinski Cancer Centre, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,3 Escarpment Cancer Research Institute, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Little population-level information exists about the delivery of palliative care across multiple health sectors, important in providing a complete picture of current care and gaps in care. AIM Provide a population perspective on end-of-life palliative care delivery across health sectors. DESIGN Retrospective population-level cohort study, describing palliative care in the last year of life using linked health administrative databases. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS All decedents in Ontario, Canada, from 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2012 ( n = 177,817). RESULTS Across all health sectors, about half (51.9%) of all decedents received at least one record of palliative care in the last year of life. Being female, middle-aged, living in wealthier and urban neighborhoods, having cancer, and less multi-morbidity were all associated with higher odds of palliative care receipt. Among 92,276 decedents receiving palliative care, 84.9% received care in acute care hospitals. Among recipients, 35 mean days of palliative care were delivered. About half (49.1%) of all palliative care days were delivered in the last 2 months of life, and half (50.1%) had palliative care initiated in this period. Only about one-fifth of all decedents (19.3%) received end-of-life care through publicly funded home care. Less than 10% of decedents had a record of a palliative care home visit from a physician. CONCLUSION We describe methods to capture palliative care using administrative data. Despite an estimate of overall reach (51.9%) that is higher than previous estimates, we have shown that palliative care is infrequently delivered particularly in community settings and to non-cancer patients and occurs close to death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Tanuseputro
- Bruyère Centre for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa Hospital—Civic Campus, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Suman Budhwani
- Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yu Qing Bai
- Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Walter P Wodchis
- Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
- Primary Care & Population Health, Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Walshe C, Dodd S, Hill M, Ockenden N, Payne S, Preston N, Perez Algorta G. How effective are volunteers at supporting people in their last year of life? A pragmatic randomised wait-list trial in palliative care (ELSA). BMC Med 2016; 14:203. [PMID: 27931214 PMCID: PMC5146890 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-016-0746-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical care alone at the end of life is unlikely to meet all needs. Volunteers are a key resource, acceptable to patients, but there is no evidence on care outcomes. This study aimed to determine whether support from a social action volunteer service is better than usual care at improving quality of life for adults in the last year of life. METHODS A pragmatic, multi-centre wait-list controlled trial, with participants randomly allocated to receive the volunteer support intervention either immediately or after a 4 week wait. Trained volunteers provided tailored face-to-face support including befriending, practical support and signposting to services, primarily provided within the home, typically for 2-3 hours per week. The primary outcome was rate of change of quality of life at 4 weeks (WHO QOL BREF, a general, culturally sensitive measure). Secondary outcomes included rate of change of quality of life at 8 weeks and Loneliness (De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale), social support (mMOS-SS), and reported use of health and social care services at 4 and 8 weeks. RESULTS In total, 196 adults (61% (n = 109) female; mean age 72 years) were included in the study. No significant difference was found in main or secondary outcomes at 4 weeks. Rate of change of quality of life showed trends in favour of the intervention (physical quality of life domain: b = 3.98, CI, -0.38 to 8.34; psychological domain: b = 2.59, CI, -2.24 to 7.43; environmental domain: b = 3, CI, -4.13 to 4.91). Adjusted analyses to control for hours of volunteer input found significantly less decrease in physical quality of life in the intervention group (slope (b) 4.43, CI, 0.10 to 8.76). While the intervention also favoured the rate of change of emotional (b = -0.08; CI, -0.52 to 0.35) and social loneliness (b = -0.20; CI, -0.58 to 0.18), social support (b = 0.13; CI, -0.13 to 0.39), and reported use of health and social care professionals (b = 0.16; CI, -0.22 to 0.55), these were not statistically significant. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians can confidently refer to volunteer services at the end of life. Future research should focus on 'dose' to maximise likely impact. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was prospectively registered. ISRCTN Registry: ISRCTN12929812 , registered 20 May 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Walshe
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK.
| | - Steven Dodd
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK
| | - Matt Hill
- Institute for Volunteering Research, NCVO, Society Building, 8 All Saints Street, London, N1 9RL, UK
| | - Nick Ockenden
- Institute for Volunteering Research, NCVO, Society Building, 8 All Saints Street, London, N1 9RL, UK
| | - Sheila Payne
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK
| | - Nancy Preston
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK
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O’Dowd EL, McKeever TM, Baldwin DR, Hubbard RB. Place of Death in Patients with Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study from 2004-2013. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0161399. [PMID: 27551922 PMCID: PMC4995051 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Many patients with cancer die in an acute hospital bed, which has been frequently identified as the least preferred location, with psychological and financial implications. This study looks at place and cause of death in patients with lung cancer and identifies which factors are associated with dying in an acute hospital bed versus at home. Methods and Findings We used the National Lung Cancer Audit linked to Hospital Episode Statistics and Office for National Statistics data to determine cause and place of death in those with lung cancer; both overall and by cancer Network. We used multivariate logistic regression to compare features of those who died in an acute hospital versus those who died at home. Results Of 143627 patients identified 40% (57678) died in an acute hospital, 29% (41957) died at home and 17% (24108) died in a hospice. Individual factors associated with death in an acute hospital bed compared to home were male sex, increasing age, poor performance status, social deprivation and diagnosis via an emergency route. There was marked variation between cancer Networks in place of death. The proportion of patients dying in an acute hospital ranged from 28% to 48%, with variation most notable in provision of hospice care (9% versus 33%). Cause of death in the majority was lung cancer (86%), with other malignancies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and ischaemic heart disease (IHD) comprising 9% collectively. Conclusions A substantial proportion of patients with lung cancer die in acute hospital beds and this is more likely with increasing age, male sex, social deprivation and in those with poor performance status. There is marked variation between Networks, suggesting a need to improve end-of-life planning in those at greatest risk, and to review the allocation of resources to provide more hospice beds, enhanced community support and ensure equal access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L. O’Dowd
- Division of Public Health and Epidemiology, Clinical Sciences Building, Nottingham City Campus, Hucknall Road, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: emma.o’
| | - Tricia M. McKeever
- Division of Public Health and Epidemiology, Clinical Sciences Building, Nottingham City Campus, Hucknall Road, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - David R. Baldwin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, David Evans Building, Nottingham City Hospital, Hucknall Road, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard B. Hubbard
- Division of Public Health and Epidemiology, Clinical Sciences Building, Nottingham City Campus, Hucknall Road, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Costantini M, Rabitti E, Beccaro M, Fusco F, Peruselli C, La Ciura P, Valle A, Suriani C, Berardi MA, Valenti D, Mosso F, Morino P, Zaninetta G, Tubere G, Piazza M, Sofia M, Di Leo S, Higginson IJ. Validity, reliability and responsiveness to change of the Italian palliative care outcome scale: a multicenter study of advanced cancer patients. BMC Palliat Care 2016; 15:23. [PMID: 26920738 PMCID: PMC4768331 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-016-0095-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an increasing requirement to assess outcomes, but few measures have been tested for advanced medical illness. We aimed to test the validity, reliability and responsiveness of the Palliative care Outcome Scale (POS), and to analyse predictors of change after the transition to palliative care. METHODS Phase 1: multicentre, mixed method study comprising cognitive and qualitative interviews with patients and staff, cultural refinement and adaption. Phase 2: consecutive cancer patients on admission to 8 inpatient hospices and 7 home-based teams were asked to complete the POS, the EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL and the FACIT-Sp (T0), to assess internal consistency, convergent and divergent validity. After 6 days (T1) patients and staff completed the POS to assess responsiveness to change (T1-T0), and agreement between self-assessed POS and POS completed by the staff. Finally, we asked hospices an assessment 24-48 h after T1 to assess its reliability (test re-test analysis). RESULTS Phase I: 209 completed POS questionnaires and 29 cognitive interviews were assessed, revisions made and one item substituted. Phase II: 295 consecutive patients admitted to 15 PCTs were approached, 175 (59.3 %) were eligible, and 150 (85.7 %) consented. Consent was limited by the severity of illness in 40 % patients. We found good convergent validity, with strong and moderate correlations (r ranged 0.5-0.8) between similar items from the POS, the QLQ-C15-PAL and the FACIT-Sp. As hypothesised, the physical function subscale of QLQ-C15-PAL was not correlated with any POS item (r ranged -0.16-0.02). We found acceptable to good test re-test reliability in both versions for 6 items. We found significant clinical improvements during the first week of palliative care in 7/10 items assessed-pain, other symptoms, patient and family anxiety, information, feeling at peace and wasted time. CONCLUSIONS Both the patient self-assessed and professional POS versions are valid and with an acceptable internal consistency. POS detected significant clinical improvements during palliative care, at a time when patients are usually expected to deteriorate. These results suggest that there is room for substantial improvement in the management of patients with advanced disease, across all key domains-symptoms, psychological, information, social and spiritual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Costantini
- />Palliative Care Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Elisa Rabitti
- />Palliative Care Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Monica Beccaro
- />Academy of Sciences of Palliative Medicine, Bentivoglio, Bologna Italy
| | - Flavio Fusco
- />Palliative Care Unit, ASL3 Genovese, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Maria Alejandra Berardi
- />Psycho-Oncology Unit, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | | | | | - Piero Morino
- />Convento delle Oblate Hospice, Azienda Sanitaria, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | - Massimo Piazza
- />S. Felice a Ema Hospice, Azienda Sanitaria, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Di Leo
- />Psycho-Oncology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Irene J. Higginson
- />Department of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s College London, London, UK
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