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Anwar A, Amin MK, Anwar S, Shahzad M. Bridge the Gap: Addressing Rural End-of-Life Care Disparities and Access to Hospice Services. J Pain Symptom Manage 2024:S0885-3924(24)00853-4. [PMID: 39002712 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2024.07.001] [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] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Rural hospices face many obstacles in delivering palliative and end-of-life care in the United States. We aimed to identify these barriers and their potential solutions. Following a systematic approach, a comprehensive literature search using relevant keywords was conducted on online databases. Additionally, we conducted a manual search to include policy documents and white papers. Key challenges reported in the literature included limited geographic barriers and access issues, limited economic support, regulatory hindrances, and difficulty training and retaining palliative care staff. This contributes to inequitable access to hospice care in rural settings. We propose several potential solutions to overcome these hurdles and improve access. Advanced practice providers should be considered to serve as physician heads in rural hospices, which would expand resources in areas with physician shortages. A single per diem payment model should be implemented for rural hospices, regardless of the level of care provided, to help offset the higher cost of care. The Critical Access Hospital program and offering cost-based reimbursement for swing-bed stays could improve access to postacute care, including hospice services. Telehealth can improve the timeliness of care and reduce travel costs for patients and providers. Another solution to consider is simulation-based training to enhance the education of healthcare providers. In conclusion, there is a critical gap in end-of-life care access in rural communities. A multifaceted approach including policy changes, financial support, and technological innovations is essential to improve hospice care access in rural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asif Anwar
- Northwestern University (A.A.), Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Muhammad Kashif Amin
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (M.K.A.), Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | | | - Moazzam Shahzad
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center (M.S.), Tampa, Florida, USA; Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of South Florida (M.S.), Tampa, Florida, USA.
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2
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Fasting A, Hetlevik I, Mjølstad BP. Put on the sidelines of palliative care: a qualitative study of important barriers to GPs' participation in palliative care and guideline implementation in Norway. Scand J Prim Health Care 2024; 42:254-265. [PMID: 38289262 PMCID: PMC11003325 DOI: 10.1080/02813432.2024.2306241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Demographic changes, the evolvement of modern medicine and new treatments for severe diseases, increase the need for palliative care services. Palliative care includes all patients with life-limiting conditions, irrespective of diagnosis. In Norway, palliative care rests on a decentralised model where patient care can be delivered close to the patient's home, and the Norwegian guideline for palliative care describes a model of care resting on extensive collaboration. Previous research suggests that this guideline is not well implemented among general practitioners (GPs). In this study, we aim to investigate barriers to GPs' participation in palliative care and implementation of the guideline. METHODS We interviewed 25 GPs in four focus groups guided by a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed qualitatively with reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS We identified four main themes as barriers to GPs' participation in palliative care and to implementation of the guideline: (1) different established local cultures and practices of palliative care, (2) discontinuity of the GP-patient relationship, (3) unclear clinical handover and information gaps and (4) a mismatch between the guideline and everyday general practice. CONCLUSION Significant structural and individual barriers to GPs' participation in palliative care exist, which hamper the implementation of the guideline. GPs should be involved as stakeholders when guidelines involving them are created. Introduction of new professionals in primary care needs to be actively managed to avoid inappropriate collaborative practices. Continuity of the GP-patient relationship must be maintained throughout severe illness and at end-of-life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Fasting
- General Practice Research Unit, Department of Public Health and Nursing, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Unit for Palliative Care and Chemotherapy Treatment, Oncology Department, Møre og Romsdal Hospital Trust, Kristiansund Hospital, Norway
| | - Irene Hetlevik
- General Practice Research Unit, Department of Public Health and Nursing, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Bente Prytz Mjølstad
- General Practice Research Unit, Department of Public Health and Nursing, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Saksvik legekontor, Saxe Viks veg 4, N-7562 Hundhammeren, Norway
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3
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Agbodjavou MK, Mêliho PC, Akpi EA, Gandaho WM, Kpatchavi AC. 'We had to be there, Present to Help Him': Local Evidence on the Feeling of Safety in End-of-Life Care in Togo. Indian J Palliat Care 2024; 30:168-175. [PMID: 38846130 PMCID: PMC11152511 DOI: 10.25259/ijpc_66_2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives For patients with diabetes and cancer at the end-of-life and their families, the safety sought in end-of-life care leads them to opt for home care. In developing countries where palliative care is not yet effectively integrated into public health policies, factors such as long distances to hospital referrals, lack of adequate infrastructure and shortage of specialised health professionals create a sense of insecurity for people seeking end-of-life care. The present study explored the factors that reinforce the feeling of security and insecurity of family members who have opted to accompany their relatives with diabetes and/or advanced cancer at the end-of-life at home in Togo. Materials and Methods This was an ethnographic approach based on observations and in-depth semi-structured interviews with people with the following characteristics: family members (bereaved or not) with experience of caring for a patient with diabetes and cancer at home at the end-of-life. The data were analysed using content and thematic analysis. This was done to identify categories and subcategories using the qualitative analysis software Nvivo12. Results The results show that of the ten relatives interviewed, eight had lived with the patient. Factors contributing to the feeling of security in the accompaniment of end-of-life care at home by the family members were, among others: 'Informal support from health-care professionals,' 'social support' from relatives and finally, attitudes and predispositions of the family members (presence and availability to the patient, predisposition to respect the patient's wishes at the place of end-of-life care and predisposition to talk about death with the dying person). Conclusion The 'informal support of health-care professionals', the 'perception of the home as a safe space for end-of-life care' and the 'social support' of family members contributed most to the feeling of safety among family members accompanying their diabetic and cancer patient family members at the end-of-life at home in Togo. Therefore, palliative and end-of-life care must be rethought in public health policies in Togo to orientate this care toward the home while providing families/caregivers with the knowledge and tools necessary to strengthen care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mena Komi Agbodjavou
- Multidisciplinary Doctoral School Spaces, Cultures and Development, Abomey Calavi University, Abomey Calavi, Benin
| | - Pierre Codjo Mêliho
- Department of Livestock Systems Management and Operations, National School of Agriculture, Kétou, Benin
| | - Eric Ayédjo Akpi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Abomey-Calavi University, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Wilisse Marlène Gandaho
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health, Regional Institute of Public Health - Comlan Alfred Quenum, Abomey-Calavi, Benin
| | - Adolphe Codjo Kpatchavi
- Multidisciplinary Doctoral School Spaces, Cultures and Development, Abomey Calavi University, Abomey Calavi, Benin
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4
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Svynarenko R, Huang G, Keim-Malpass J, Cozad MJ, Qualls KA, Stone Sharp W, Kirkland DA, Lindley LC. A Comparison of Hospice Care Utilization Between Rural and Urban Children in Appalachia: A Geographic Information Systems Analysis. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41:288-294. [PMID: 37115718 PMCID: PMC10826679 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231173415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Long driving times from hospice providers to patients lead to poor quality of care, which may exacerbate in rural and highly isolated areas of Appalachia. This study aimed to investigate geographic patterns of pediatric hospice care across Appalachia. Using person-level Medicaid claims of 1,788 pediatric hospice enrollees who resided in the Appalachian Region between 2011 and 2013. A database of boundaries of Appalachian counties, postal addresses of hospices, and population-weighted county centroids of residences of hospice enrollees driving times from the nearest hospices were calculated. A choropleth map was created to visualize rural/urban differences in receiving hospice care. The average driving time from hospice to child residence was 28 minutes (SD = 26). The longest driving time was in Eastern Kentucky-126 minutes (SD = 32), and the shortest was in South Carolina-11 min (SD = 9.1). The most significant differences in driving times between rural and urban counties were found in Virginia 28 (SD = 7.5) and 5 minutes (SD = 0), respectively, Tennessee-43 (SD = 28) and 8 minutes (SD = 7), respectively; and West Virginia-49 (SD = 30) and 12 minutes (SD = 4), respectively. Many pediatric hospice patients reside in isolated counties with long driving times from the nearest hospices. State-level policies should be developed to reduce driving times from hospice providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guoping Huang
- Spatial Sciences Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Melanie J Cozad
- Department of Health Services Research and Administration, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kerri A Qualls
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | | | - Deb A Kirkland
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Lisa C Lindley
- College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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5
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Sadang KG, Centracchio JA, Turk Y, Park E, Feliciano JL, Chua IS, Blackhall L, Silveira MJ, Fischer SM, Rabow M, Zachariah F, Grey C, Campbell TC, Strand J, Temel JS, Greer JA. Clinician Perceptions of Barriers and Facilitators for Delivering Early Integrated Palliative Care via Telehealth. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5340. [PMID: 38001600 PMCID: PMC10670662 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Early integrated palliative care (EIPC) significantly improves clinical outcomes for patients with advanced cancer. Telehealth may be a useful tool to deliver EIPC sustainably and equitably. Palliative care clinicians completed a survey regarding their perceptions of the barriers, facilitators, and benefits of using telehealth video visits for delivering EIPC for patients with advanced lung cancer. Forty-eight clinicians across 22 cancer centers completed the survey between May and July 2022. Most (91.7%) agreed that telehealth increases access to EIPC and simplifies the process for patients to receive EIPC (79.2%). Clinicians noted that the elderly, those in rural areas, and those with less-resourced backgrounds have greater difficulty using telehealth. Perceived barriers were largely patient-based factors, including technological literacy, internet and device availability, and patient preferences. Clinicians agreed that several organizational factors facilitated telehealth EIPC delivery, including technological infrastructure (85.4%), training (83.3%), and support from study coordinators (81.3%). Other barriers included systems-based factors, such as insurance reimbursement and out-of-state coverage restrictions. Patient-, organization-, and systems-based factors are all important to providing and improving access to telehealth EIPC services. Further research is needed to investigate the efficacy of telehealth EIPC and how policies and interventions may improve access to and dissemination of this care modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Grace Sadang
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Lifelong Medical Care Family Medicine Residency, Richmond, CA 94801, USA
| | - Joely A. Centracchio
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (J.A.C.); (Y.T.); (E.P.); (J.S.T.)
| | - Yael Turk
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (J.A.C.); (Y.T.); (E.P.); (J.S.T.)
| | - Elyse Park
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (J.A.C.); (Y.T.); (E.P.); (J.S.T.)
| | | | - Isaac S. Chua
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital & Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
| | - Leslie Blackhall
- Department of Palliative Care, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA;
| | - Maria J. Silveira
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Ann Arbor Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA;
| | | | - Michael Rabow
- University of California San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA;
| | | | - Carl Grey
- Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA;
| | - Toby C. Campbell
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Palliative Care, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA;
| | | | - Jennifer S. Temel
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (J.A.C.); (Y.T.); (E.P.); (J.S.T.)
| | - Joseph A. Greer
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA; (J.A.C.); (Y.T.); (E.P.); (J.S.T.)
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6
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Marco DJT, McMillan-Drendel E, Philip JAM, Williamson T, Le B. Establishment of the first Australian public and health-professional palliative care advice service: exploring caller needs and gaps in care. AUST HEALTH REV 2023; 47:569-573. [PMID: 37516935 DOI: 10.1071/ah23108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
This study explores and describes the state-wide needs of the first 1000 calls to the newly established Victorian Palliative Care Advice Service (PCAS). A retrospective analysis investigated calls from the Victorian general public (n = 618 calls) and healthcare professionals (n = 382 calls) to PCAS between 26 May 2020 and 24 October 2022. Caller demographics, disease type, reason for call, and perceived utility of service were described. Most calls were from members of the public (62%) and related to malignant conditions (41%). Regional/rural clients comprised 45% of all calls to the service, of which half (50%) were health professionals seeking advice on symptom management and medication. One-third (29.3%) of all calls from health professionals were escalated to a palliative care medical consultant. PCAS prevented calls to emergency services in 10% of cases, and 82% of callers reported their issue was 'very much' or 'completely' addressed by PCAS. PCAS was shown to be frequently used by the public and healthcare professionals supporting patients with advanced, life-limiting illnesses. The service provided a solution without requiring complex technology, delivering a rapid connection for consumers with specialist palliative care expertise that might otherwise be unavailable, particularly in regional areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J T Marco
- Centre for Palliative Care, St. Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Vic., Australia; and Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | | | - Jennifer A M Philip
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia; and Palliative Care, Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Theresa Williamson
- Palliative Care, Department of Health and Human Services, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Brian Le
- Palliative Care, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Vic., Australia; and Palliative Care, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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7
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Papworth A, Hackett J, Beresford B, Murtagh F, Weatherly H, Hinde S, Bedendo A, Walker G, Noyes J, Oddie S, Vasudevan C, Feltbower RG, Phillips B, Hain R, Subramanian G, Haynes A, Fraser LK. Regional perspectives on the coordination and delivery of paediatric end-of-life care in the UK: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:117. [PMID: 37587514 PMCID: PMC10428585 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01238-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Provision of and access to paediatric end-of-life care is inequitable, but previous research on this area has focused on perspectives of health professionals in specific settings or children with specific conditions. This qualitative study aimed to explore regional perspectives of the successes, and challenges to the equitable coordination and delivery of end-of-life care for children in the UK. The study provides an overarching perspective on the challenges of delivering and coordinating end-of-life care for children in the UK, and the impact of these on health professionals and organisations. Previous research has not highlighted the successes in the sector, such as the formal and informal coordination of care between different services and sectors. METHODS Semi-structured interviews with Chairs of the regional Palliative Care Networks across the UK. Chairs or co-Chairs (n = 19) of 15/16 Networks were interviewed between October-December 2021. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Three main themes were identified: one standalone theme ("Communication during end-of-life care"); and two overarching themes ("Getting end-of-life services and staff in the right place", with two themes: "Access to, and staffing of end-of-life care" and "Inconsistent and insufficient funding for end-of-life care services"; and "Linking up healthcare provision", with three sub-themes: "Coordination successes", "Role of the networks", and "Coordination challenges"). Good end-of-life care was facilitated through collaborative and network approaches to service provision, and effective communication with families. The implementation of 24/7 advice lines and the formalisation of joint-working arrangements were highlighted as a way to address the current challenges in the specialism. CONCLUSIONS Findings demonstrate how informal and formal relationships between organisations and individuals, enabled early communication with families, and collaborative working with specialist services. Formalising these could increase knowledge and awareness of end of life care, improve staff confidence, and overall improve professionals' experiences of delivering care, and families' experiences of receiving it. There are considerable positives that come from collaborative working between different organisations and sectors, and care could be improved if these approaches are funded and formalised. There needs to be consistent funding for paediatric palliative care and there is a clear need for education and training to improve staff knowledge and confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Papworth
- Department of Health Sciences, Martin House Research Centre, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Julia Hackett
- Department of Health Sciences, Martin House Research Centre, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK.
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
| | - Bryony Beresford
- Department of Health Sciences, Martin House Research Centre, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK
- Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Fliss Murtagh
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Helen Weatherly
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sebastian Hinde
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Andre Bedendo
- Department of Health Sciences, Martin House Research Centre, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | | | - Jane Noyes
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, LL57 2EF, UK
| | - Sam Oddie
- Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
| | | | - Richard G Feltbower
- Leeds Institute for Data Analytics, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9NL, UK
| | - Bob Phillips
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Richard Hain
- All-Wales Paediatric Palliative Care Network, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, CF14 4XW, UK
- College of Human and Health Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | | | - Andrew Haynes
- Department of Health Sciences, Martin House Research Centre, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Lorna K Fraser
- Department of Health Sciences, Martin House Research Centre, University of York, Heslington, YO10 5DD, York, UK
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- Cicely Saunders Institute, Kings College London, Bessemer Road, London, SE5 9PJ, UK
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McLouth LE, Gabbard J, Levine BJ, Golden SL, Lycan TW, Petty WJ, Weaver KE. Prognostic Awareness, Palliative Care Use, and Barriers to Palliative Care in Patients Undergoing Immunotherapy or Chemo-Immunotherapy for Metastatic Lung Cancer. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:831-836. [PMID: 36912809 PMCID: PMC10277982 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study describes patients' prognostic awareness and palliative care use in the setting of immunotherapy for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC). Design: We surveyed 60 mNSCLC patients receiving immunotherapy at a large academic medical center; conducted follow-up interviews with 12 survey participants; and abstracted palliative care use, advance directive completion, and death within a year of survey completion from the medical record. Results: Forty seven percent of patients surveyed thought they would be cured; 83% were not interested in palliative care. Interviews suggested oncologists emphasized therapeutic options when discussing prognosis and that commonly used descriptions of palliative care may exacerbate misperceptions. Only 7% had received outpatient palliative care and 8% had an advance directive a year after the survey; only 16% of the 19 patients who died had received outpatient palliative care. Conclusions: Interventions are needed to facilitate prognostic discussions and outpatient palliative care during immunotherapy. Clinical Trial Registration Number NCT03741868.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie E. McLouth
- Department of Behavioral Science, Markey Cancer Center, Center for Health Equity Transformation, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Jennifer Gabbard
- Section on Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Beverly J. Levine
- Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy and Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Thomas W. Lycan
- Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - W. Jeffrey Petty
- Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kathryn E. Weaver
- Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy and Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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9
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Cornell PY, Halladay CW, Montano AR, Celardo C, Chmelka G, Silva JW, Rudolph JL. Social Work Staffing and Use of Palliative Care Among Recently Hospitalized Veterans. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2249731. [PMID: 36598783 PMCID: PMC9856777 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.49731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Palliative care improves quality of life for patients and families but may be underused. OBJECTIVE To assess the association of an intervention to increase social work staffing in Veterans Health Administration primary care teams with use of palliative care among veterans with a recent hospitalization. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This cohort study used differences-in-differences analyses of the change in palliative care use associated with implementation of the Social Work Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) staffing program, conducted from October 1, 2016, to September 30, 2019. The study included 71 VA primary care sites serving rural veterans. Participants were adult veterans who received primary care services from a site enrolled in the program and who received inpatient hospital care. Data were analyzed from January 2020 to August 2022. EXPOSURES The PACT staffing program was a clinic-level intervention that provided 3-year seed funding to Veterans Health Administration medical centers to hire 1 or more additional social workers in primary care teams. Staggered timing of the intervention enabled comparison of mean outcomes across sites before and after the intervention. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was the number of individuals per 1000 veterans who had any palliative care use in 30 days after an inpatient hospital stay. RESULTS The analytic sample included 43 200 veterans (mean [SD] age, 65.34 [13.95] years; 37 259 [86.25%] men) and a total of 91 675 episodes of inpatient hospital care. Among the total cohort, 8611 veterans (9.39%) were Black, 77 069 veterans (84.07%) were White, and 2679 veterans (2.92%) were another race (including American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian, and Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander). A mean of 14.5 individuals per 1000 veterans (1329 individuals in all) used palliative care after a hospital stay. After the intervention, there was an increase of 15.6 (95% CI, 9.2-22.3) individuals per 1000 veterans using palliative or hospice care after a hospital stay, controlling for national time trends and veteran characteristics-a 2-fold difference relative to the mean. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE This cohort study found significant increases in use of palliative care for recently hospitalized veterans whose primary care team had additional social work staffing. These findings suggest that social workers may increase access to and/or use of palliative care. Future work should assess the mechanism for this association and whether the increase in palliative care is associated with other health or health care outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Portia Y. Cornell
- Center of Innovation for Long-Term Services and Supports, Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Christopher W. Halladay
- Center of Innovation for Long-Term Services and Supports, Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
| | | | - Caitlin Celardo
- National Social Work Program, Care Management and Social Work Services, Patient Care Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia
- Northport VA Medical Center, Northport, New York
| | - Gina Chmelka
- National Social Work Program, Care Management and Social Work Services, Patient Care Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia
- Tomah VA Medical Center, Tomah, Wisconsin
| | - Jennifer W. Silva
- National Social Work Program, Care Management and Social Work Services, Patient Care Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia
- VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville
| | - James L. Rudolph
- Center of Innovation for Long-Term Services and Supports, Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
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10
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Handley T, Jorm C, Symington C, Christie L, Forbes E, Munro A, Cheney R. 'It sort of has the feel of being at home': Mixed-methods evaluation of a pilot community-based palliative end-of-life service in a regional setting. Aust J Rural Health 2022; 30:582-592. [PMID: 35749467 PMCID: PMC9796149 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of a small community-based hospice on the end-of-life experiences of patients and families. METHODS Mixed-methods study. DESIGN Patient admission data were used to assess utilisation of the hospice. Open-ended interviews with hospice patients and their families/carers were used to understand the emotional effects of the service. SETTING A small palliative end-of-life hospice in a rural town in NSW, Australia, during a 12-month trial period that began in March 2019. Data were collected in October-November 2019. PARTICIPANTS Patients, families and carers who used the hospice during the trial period, as well as staff working at the hospice. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Quantitative measures included the number of patients admitted to the hospice, the average length of stay and the overall occupancy rate of the hospice. Quantitative interviews were used to explore the experiences of patients and families who used the hospice, and whether the hospice met their end-of-life needs. RESULTS During the trial, 58 patients were admitted to the hospice. The majority of admissions were less than 7 days. Two patients and nine family members were interviewed about their experiences, and six staff completed interviews. Experiences were consistently positive, with the community setting of the hospice contributing to a peaceful and home-like end-of-life experience. Interviewees described meaningful relationships with staff, a pleasant physical environment and the comprehensive care provided were key elements of this experience. CONCLUSION This model, embedding end-of-life care within a residential aged care facility, facilitated a positive end-of-life experience for residents of this regional community. The development of local models to meet local needs is essential to enabling people nearing the end of life to remain in their location of choice, and ensure that their needs are met at this vulnerable time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonelle Handley
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNSWAustralia
| | - Christine Jorm
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNSWAustralia
| | | | | | - Erin Forbes
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNSWAustralia
| | - Alice Munro
- Western NSW Local Health DistrictOrangeNSWAustralia
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11
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Soltoff A, Purvis S, Ravicz M, Isaacson MJ, Duran T, Johnson G, Sargent M, LaPlante JR, Petereit D, Armstrong K, Daubman BR. Factors Influencing Palliative Care Access and Delivery for Great Plains American Indians. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:276-286. [PMID: 35618250 PMCID: PMC10230738 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Despite the known importance of culturally tailored palliative care (PC), American Indian people (AIs) in the Great Plains lack access to such services. While clinicians caring for AIs in the Great Plains have long acknowledged major barriers to serious illness care, there is a paucity of literature describing specific factors influencing PC access and delivery for AI patients living on reservation land. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore factors influencing PC access and delivery on reservation land in the Great Plains to inform the development culturally tailored PC services for AIs. METHODS Three authors recorded and transcribed interviews with 21 specialty and 17 primary clinicians. A data analysis team of seven authors analyzed transcripts using conventional content analysis. The analysis team met over Zoom to engage in code negotiation, classify codes, and develop themes. RESULTS Qualitative analysis of interview data revealed four themes encompassing factors influencing palliative care delivery and access for Great Plains American Indians: health care system operations (e.g., hospice and home health availability, fragmented services), geography (e.g., weather, travel distances), workforce elements (e.g., care continuity, inadequate staffing, cultural familiarity), and historical trauma and racism. CONCLUSION Our findings emphasize the importance of addressing the time and cost of travel for seriously ill patients, increasing home health and hospice availability on reservations, and improving trust in the medical system. Strengthening the AI medical workforce, increasing funding for the Indian Health Service, and transitioning the governance of reservation health care to Tribal entities may improve the trustworthiness of the medical system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Soltoff
- Department of Medicine (A.S., S.P., M.R.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Sara Purvis
- Department of Medicine (A.S., S.P., M.R.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Miranda Ravicz
- Department of Medicine (A.S., S.P., M.R.), Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mary J Isaacson
- College of Nursing South Dakota State University (M.J.I.), Rapid City, SD, USA
| | - Tinka Duran
- Community Health Prevention Programs (T.D., G.J.), Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board, Rapid City, SD, USA
| | - Gina Johnson
- Community Health Prevention Programs (T.D., G.J.), Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board, Rapid City, SD, USA
| | - Michele Sargent
- Walking Forward (M.S., D.P.), Avera Research Institute, Avera Health, Rapid City, SD, USA
| | - J R LaPlante
- American Indian Health Initiative (J.R.L.), Avera Health, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Daniel Petereit
- Walking Forward (M.S., D.P.), Avera Research Institute, Avera Health, Rapid City, SD, USA
| | | | - Bethany-Rose Daubman
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine (B.R.D.), Boston, MA, USA
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12
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Hutchinson RN, Anderson EC, Ruben MA, Manning N, John L, Daruvala A, Rizzo DM, Eppstein MJ, Gramling R, Han PK. A Formative Mixed-Methods Study of Emotional Responsiveness in Telepalliative Care. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:1258-1267. [PMID: 35417249 PMCID: PMC9347382 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: It is unknown whether telemedicine-delivered palliative care (tele-PC) supports emotionally responsive patient-clinician interactions. Objectives: We conducted a mixed-methods formative study at two academic medical centers in rural U.S. states to explore the acceptability, feasibility, and emotional responsiveness of tele-PC. Design: We assessed clinicians' emotional responsiveness through questionnaires, qualitative interviews, and video coding. Results: We completed 11 tele-PC consultations. Mean age was 71 years, 30% did not complete high school, 55% experienced at least moderate financial insecurity, and 2/3 rated their overall health poorly. All patients rated tele-PC as equal to, or better than, in-person PC at providing emotional support. There was a tendency toward higher positive and lower negative emotions following the consultation. Video coding identified 114 instances of patients expressing emotions, and clinicians detected and responded to 98% of these events. Conclusion: Tele-PC appears to support emotionally responsive patient-clinician interactions. A mixed-methods approach to evaluating tele-PC yields useful, complementary insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca N. Hutchinson
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Portland, Maine, USA
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Eric C. Anderson
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Portland, Maine, USA
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Noah Manning
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Liam John
- Department of Family Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, and University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Ava Daruvala
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Donna M. Rizzo
- College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Margaret J. Eppstein
- College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Robert Gramling
- Department of Family Medicine, Larner College of Medicine, and University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Paul K.J. Han
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Portland, Maine, USA
- Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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13
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Cross SH, Anderson DM, Cox CE, Agarwal S, Haines KL. Trends in Location of Death Among Older Adult Americans After Falls. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2022; 8:23337214221098897. [PMID: 35559359 PMCID: PMC9087234 DOI: 10.1177/23337214221098897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Fall-related mortality is increasing among older adults, yet
trends and changes in the location of fall-attributed deaths are unknown; additionally,
potential disparities are understudied. Methods: To assess trends/factors
associated with place of death among older adult fall deaths in the US, a cross-sectional
analysis of deaths using mortality data from 2003–2017 was performed.
Results: Most deaths occurred in hospitals, however, the proportion
decreased from 66.4% (n = 9,095) to 50.7% (n = 15,817).
The proportion occurring in nursing facilities decreased from 15.9% (n =
2175) to 15.3% (n = 4,778), while deaths at home and in hospice
facilities increased. Male, Black, Native American, and married decedents had increased
odds of hospital death. Conclusion: As fall deaths increase among older
adults, end-of-life needs of this population deserve increased attention. Research should
explore needs and preferences of older adults who experience falls and their caregivers to
reduce disparities in place of death and to ensure high quality of care is received.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H. Cross
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - David M. Anderson
- Duke-Robert J. Margolis, MD, Center for Health Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christopher E. Cox
- Division of Pulmonary Critical Care, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Suresh Agarwal
- Division of Trauma and Critical Care and Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Krista L. Haines
- Division of Trauma and Critical Care and Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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14
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Fornehed MLC, Svynarenko R, Keim-Malpass J, Cozad MJ, Qualls KA, Stone WL, Lindley LC. Comparison between Rural and Urban Appalachian Children in Hospice Care. South Med J 2022; 115:192-197. [PMID: 35237837 PMCID: PMC8908896 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to compare rural and urban pediatric hospice patients in Appalachia. METHODS Using a retrospective, nonexperimental design, we sought to compare characteristics of Appalachian rural and urban children younger than 21 years enrolled in the Medicaid hospice benefit. Descriptive statistics were calculated on the demographic, hospice, and clinical characteristics of children from Appalachia. Comparisons were calculated using Pearson χ2 for proportions and the Student t test for means. RESULTS Less than half of the 1788 Appalachian children admitted to hospice care resided in rural areas (40%). Compared with children in urban areas of Appalachia, rural children were significantly younger (8 years vs 9.5 years) and more often had a complex chronic condition (56.0% vs 35.1%) and comorbidities (38.5% vs 17.0%) with technology dependence (32.6% vs 17.0%). Children in rural Appalachian were commonly from communities in the southern region of Appalachia (27.9% vs <10.0%), with median household incomes <$50,000/year (96.7% vs 22.4%). Significant differences were present in clinical care between rural and urban Appalachian children. Rural children had longer lengths of stay in hospice care (38 days vs 11 days) and were less likely to use the emergency department during hospice admission (19.0% vs 43.0%). These children more often visited their primary care provider (49.9% vs 31.3%) and sought care for symptoms from nonhospice providers (18.1% vs 10.0%) while admitted to hospice. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that children admitted to hospice care in rural versus urban Appalachia have distinct characteristics. Rural children are admitted to hospice care with significant medical complexities and reside in areas of poverty. Hospice care for rural children suggests a continuity of care with longer hospice stays and fewer transitions to the emergency department; however, the potential for care fragmentation is present, with frequent visits to primary care and nonhospice providers for symptom management. Understanding the unique characteristics of children in Appalachia may be essential for advancing knowledge and care for these children at the end of life. Future research examining geographic variation in hospice care in Appalachia is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Lou Clark Fornehed
- From the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, the College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, the School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and the Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Center for Effectiveness Research in Orthopedics, University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Radion Svynarenko
- From the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, the College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, the School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and the Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Center for Effectiveness Research in Orthopedics, University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Jessica Keim-Malpass
- From the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, the College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, the School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and the Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Center for Effectiveness Research in Orthopedics, University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Melanie J Cozad
- From the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, the College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, the School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and the Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Center for Effectiveness Research in Orthopedics, University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Kerri A Qualls
- From the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, the College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, the School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and the Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Center for Effectiveness Research in Orthopedics, University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Whitney L Stone
- From the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, the College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, the School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and the Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Center for Effectiveness Research in Orthopedics, University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Lisa C Lindley
- From the Whitson-Hester School of Nursing, Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, the College of Nursing, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, the School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and the Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Center for Effectiveness Research in Orthopedics, University of South Carolina, Columbia
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15
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Palliative care for rural growth and wellbeing: identifying perceived barriers and facilitators in access to palliative care in rural Indiana, USA. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:25. [PMID: 35183136 PMCID: PMC8857623 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00913-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
With the growing aging population and high prevalence of chronic illnesses, there is an increasing demand for palliative care. In the US state of Indiana, an estimated 6.3 million people are living with one or more chronic illnesses, a large proportion of them reside in rural areas where there is limited access to palliative care leading to major healthcare inequities and disparities. This study aims to identify common barriers and facilitators to access palliative care services in rural areas of Indiana from the perspectives of healthcare providers including clinicians, educators, and community stakeholders. Using a community-based participatory approach, a purposive sample of palliative care providers (n = 15) in rural areas of Indiana was obtained. Penchansky and Thomas (1981) theoretical framework of access was used to guide the study. A semi-structured individual in-depth interview guide was used to collect the data. All the interviews were conducted online, audio-recorded, and transcribed. Barriers to palliative care include: misconceptions about palliative care as an underrecognized specialty; lack of trained palliative care providers; late involvement of inpatient palliative care and community hospice services; inadequate palliative care education and training; financial barriers, attitudes and beliefs around PC; and geographical barriers. Facilitators to palliative care include financial gains supporting palliative care growth, enhanced nurses’ role in identifying patients with palliative care needs and creating awareness and informing the community about palliative care. Robust education and awareness, enhancing advanced practice nurses’ roles, increasing funding and resources are essential to improve the access of palliative care services in the rural communities of Indiana.
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16
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Measuring effectiveness in community-based palliative care programs: A systematic review. Soc Sci Med 2022; 296:114731. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.114731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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17
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Rural Hispanic/Latino cancer patients’ perspectives on facilitators, barriers, and suggestions for advance care planning: A qualitative study. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:535-541. [DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521001498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Hispanic/Latinos living in rural areas have limited healthcare resources, including palliative and hospice care. Moreover, little is known about advance care planning (ACP) among Hispanic/Latino cancer patients in rural areas. This study explores facilitators and barriers for ACP. It elicits suggestions to promote ACP among rural Hispanic/Latino cancer patients in a US/Mexico border region.
Methods
Hispanic/Latino cancer patients (n = 30) were recruited from a nonprofit cancer organization. Data were collected via in-person interviews. Interviews were transcribed and translated from Spanish to English. Data were uploaded into NVivo 12 and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
A common theme for facilitators and barriers for ACP was safeguarding family. Additional facilitators included (1) Desire for honoring end-of-life (EoL) care wishes and (2) experience with EoL care decision making. Additional barriers include (1) Family's reluctance to participate in EoL communication and (2) Patient–clinicians’ lack of EoL communication. Practice suggestions include (1) Death education and support for family, (2) ACP education, and (3) Dialogue vs. documentation.
Significance of results
ACP functions not only as a decisional tool; its utility reflects complex dynamics in personal, social, and cultural domains. ACP approaches with this underserved population must consider family relationships as well as cultural implications, including language barriers.
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18
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Ingle MP, Valdovinos C, Ford KL, Zhou S, Bull S, Gornail S, Zhang X, Moore S, Portz J. Patient Portals to Support Palliative and End-of-Life Care: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e28797. [PMID: 34528888 PMCID: PMC8485198 DOI: 10.2196/28797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although patient portals are widely used for health promotion, little is known about the use of palliative care and end-of-life (PCEOL) portal tools available for patients and caregivers. OBJECTIVE This study aims to identify and assess the user perspectives of PCEOL portal tools available to patients and caregivers described and evaluated in the literature. METHODS We performed a scoping review of the academic literature directed by the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) extension for Scoping Review and searched three databases. Sources were included if they reported the development or testing of a feature, resource, tool, or intervention; focused on at least one PCEOL domain defined by the National Coalition for Hospice and Palliative Care; targeted adults with serious illness or caregivers; and were offered via a patient portal tethered to an electronic medical record. We independently screened the titles and abstracts (n=796) for eligibility. Full-text (84/796, 10.6%) sources were reviewed. We abstracted descriptions of the portal tool name, content, targeted population, and reported user acceptability for each tool from included sources (n=19). RESULTS In total, 19 articles describing 12 tools were included, addressing the following PCEOL domains: ethical or legal (n=5), physical (n=5), and psychological or psychiatric (n=2). No tools for bereavement or hospice care were identified. Studies have reported high acceptability of tools among users; however, few sources commented on usability among older adults. CONCLUSIONS PCEOL patient portal tools are understudied. As medical care increasingly moves toward virtual platforms, future research should investigate the usability and acceptability of PCEOL patient portal resources and evaluate their impact on health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pilar Ingle
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Cristina Valdovinos
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CO, United States
| | - Kelsey L Ford
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Shou Zhou
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Sheana Bull
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Starlynne Gornail
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Xuhong Zhang
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Susan Moore
- Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Jennifer Portz
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, United States
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19
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Harwell JH, Lippe M. Impact of ELNEC-undergraduate curriculum on associate degree nursing student primary palliative care knowledge. TEACHING AND LEARNING IN NURSING 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.teln.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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20
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Langan E, Kamal AH, Miller KEM, Kaufman BG. Comparing Palliative Care Knowledge in Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Areas of the United States: Results from a National Survey. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1833-1839. [PMID: 34061644 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite recent growth in access to specialty palliative care (PC) services, awareness of PC by patients and caregivers is limited and misconceptions about PC persist. Identifying gaps in PC knowledge may help inform initiatives that seek to reduce inequities in access to PC in rural areas. Objective: We compared knowledge of PC in metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas of the United States using a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults. Design: We used data from the 2018 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 5 Cycle 2 to compare prevalence and predictors of PC knowledge and misconceptions in nonmetropolitan and metropolitan areas as defined by the 2013 Urban-Rural Classification (URC) Scheme for Counties. We estimated the association between nonmetro status and knowledge of PC, adjusted for respondent characteristics, using multivariable logistic regression. Results: More respondents reported that they had never heard of PC in nonmetro (78.8%) than metro (70.1%) areas (p < 0.05). Controlling for other factors, nonmetro residence was associated with a 41% lower odds of PC knowledge (odds ratio [OR] = 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.37-0.94), and Hispanic respondents also demonstrated significantly lower odds of PC knowledge conditional on rural status (OR = 0.47; CI = 0.27-0.83). Misconceptions about PC were high in both metro and nonmetro areas. Conclusion: Awareness of PC was lower in rural and micropolitan areas compared with metropolitan areas, suggesting the need for tailored educational strategies. The reduced awareness of PC among Hispanic respondents regardless of rural status raises concerns about equitable access to PC services for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Langan
- Trinity College of Arts and Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Arif H Kamal
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Katherine E M Miller
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brystana G Kaufman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Margolis Center for Health Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA.,Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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21
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Surakka LK, Peake MM, Kiljunen MM, Mäntyselkä P, Lehto JT. Preplanned participation of paramedics in end-of-life care at home: A retrospective cohort study. Palliat Med 2021; 35:584-591. [PMID: 33339483 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320981713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paramedics commonly face acute crises of patients in palliative care, but their involvement in end-of-life care is not planned systematically. AIM To evaluate a protocol for end-of-life care at home including pre-planned integration of paramedics and end-of-life care wards. DESIGN Paramedic visits to patients in end-of-life care protocol were retrospectively studied. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS All of the patients who had registered for the protocol between 1 March 2015 and 28 February 2017 in North Karelia, Finland, were included in this study. RESULTS A total of 256 patients were registered for the protocol and 306 visits by paramedic were needed. A need for symptom control (38%) and transportation (29%) were the most common reasons for a visit. Paramedics visited 43% and 70% of the patients in areas with and without 24/7 palliative home care services, respectively (p < 0.001); while 58% of all the visits were done outside of office hours. Problems were resolved at home in 31% of the visits. The patient was transferred to a pre-planned end-of-life care ward and to an emergency department in 48% and 16% of the cases, respectively. More patients died in end-of-life care wards in areas without (54%) than with (33%) 24/7 home care services (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Integration of paramedics into end-of-life care at home is reasonable especially in rural areas without 24/7 palliative care services and outside of office hours. The majority of patients can be managed at home or with the help of an end-of-life care ward without an emergency visit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena K Surakka
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Palliative Care Center, Siun SOTE - North Karelia Social and Health Services Joint Authority, Joensuu, Finland
| | - Minna M Peake
- Palliative Care Center, Siun SOTE - North Karelia Social and Health Services Joint Authority, Joensuu, Finland
| | - Minna M Kiljunen
- Palliative Care Center, Siun SOTE - North Karelia Social and Health Services Joint Authority, Joensuu, Finland
- Emergency Department, Siun SOTE - North Karelia Social and Health Services Joint Authority, Joensuu, Finland
| | - Pekka Mäntyselkä
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Primary Health Care Unit, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Juho T Lehto
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Palliative Care Center, Department of Oncology, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
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Barlund AS, André B, Sand K, Brenne AT. A qualitative study of bereaved family caregivers: feeling of security, facilitators and barriers for rural home care and death for persons with advanced cancer. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:7. [PMID: 33419428 PMCID: PMC7796575 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00705-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For cancer patients and their family, an important factor that determines the choice to die at home is the caregivers' feeling of security when caring for the patient at home. Support to caregivers from healthcare professionals is important for the feeling of security. In rural areas, long distances and variable infrastructure may influence on access to healthcare services. This study explored factors that determined the security of caregivers of patients with advanced cancer who cared for the patients at home at the end of life in the rural region of Sogn og Fjordane in Norway, and what factors that facilitated home death. METHODS A qualitative study using semi-structured in-depth interviews with bereaved with experience from caring for cancer patients at home at the end of life was performed. Meaning units were extracted from the transcribed interviews and divided into categories and subcategories using Kvale and Brinkmann's qualitative method for analysis. RESULTS Ten bereaved caregivers from nine families where recruited. Five had lived together with the deceased. Three main categories of factors contributing to security emerged from the analysis: "Personal factors", "Healthcare professionals" and "Organization" of healthcare. Healthcare professionals and the organization of healthcare services contributed most to the feeling of security. CONCLUSION Good competence in palliative care among healthcare professionals caring for patients with advanced cancer at home and well- organized palliative care services with defined responsibilities provided security to caregivers caring for advanced cancer patients at home in Sogn og Fjordane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Sæle Barlund
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway. .,Cancer Department, Førde Central Hospital, Førde, Norway.
| | - Beate André
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kari Sand
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Digital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Anne-Tove Brenne
- European Palliative Care Research Centre, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Cancer Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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23
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Cross SH, Warraich HJ. Rural-Urban Disparities in Mortality from Alzheimer's and Related Dementias in the United States, 1999-2018. J Am Geriatr Soc 2020; 69:1095-1096. [PMID: 33368161 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.16996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Cross
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Haider J Warraich
- Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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24
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Weaver MS, Neumann ML, Navaneethan H, Robinson JE, Hinds PS. Human Touch via Touchscreen: Rural Nurses' Experiential Perspectives on Telehealth Use in Pediatric Hospice Care. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 60:1027-1033. [PMID: 32525081 PMCID: PMC7276120 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Telemedicine has the potential to extend care reach and access to home-based hospice services for children. Few studies have explored nurse perspectives regarding this communication modality for rural pediatric cohorts. OBJECTIVES The objective of this qualitative study was to learn from the experiences of rural hospice nurses caring for children at the end of life using telehealth modalities to inform palliative communication. METHODS Voice-recorded qualitative interviews with rural hospice nurse telehealth users inquiring on nurse experiences with telehealth. Semantic content analysis was used. RESULTS About 15 hospice nurses representing nine rural hospice agencies were interviewed. Nurses participated in an average of eight telehealth visits in the three months prior. Nurses were female with a mean age of 38 years and an average of seven years of hospice nursing experience. Five themes about telehealth emerged: accessible support, participant inclusion, timely communication, informed and trusted planning, and familiarity fostered. Each theme had both benefits and cautions associated as well as telehealth suggestions. Nurses recommended individualizing communication, pacing content, fostering human connection, and developing relationships even with technology use. CONCLUSION The experiences of nurses who use telehealth in their care for children receiving end-of-life care in rural regions may enable palliative care teams to understand both the benefits and challenges of telehealth use. Nurse insights on telehealth may help palliative care teams better honor the communication needs of patients and families while striving to improve care access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghann S Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.
| | - Marie L Neumann
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Hema Navaneethan
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Jacob E Robinson
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Pamela S Hinds
- Department of Nursing Science, Professional Practice & Quality, Children's National Health System, the George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Department of Pediatrics, the George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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25
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Muñoz MA, Garcia R, Navas E, Duran J, Del Val-Garcia JL, Verdú-Rotellar JM. Relationship between the place of living and mortality in patients with advanced heart failure. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2020; 21:145. [PMID: 32664876 PMCID: PMC7362404 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01213-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Social and environmental factors in advanced heart failure (HF) patients may be crucial to cope with the end stages of the disease. This study analyzes health inequalities and mortality according to place of residence (rural vs urban) in HF patients at advanced stages of the disease. Methods Population-based cohort study including 1148 adult patients with HF attended in 279 primary care centers. Patients were followed for at least 1 year after reaching New York Heart Association IV functional class, between 2010 and 2014. Data came from primary care electronic medical records. Cox regression models were applied to determine the hazard ratios (HR) of mortality. Results Mean age was 81.6 (SD 8.9) years, and 62% were women. Patients in rural areas were older, particularly women aged > 74 years (p = 0.036), and presented lower comorbidity. Mortality percentages were 59 and 51% among rural and urban patients, respectively (p = 0.030). Urban patients living in the most socio-economically deprived neighborhoods presented the highest rate of health service utilization, particularly with primary care nurses (p-trend < 0.001). Multivariate analyses confirmed that men (HR 1.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.34–1.90), older patients (HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.04–1.06), Charlson comorbidity index (HR 1.16, 95% CI 1.11–1.22), and residing in rural areas (HR 1.35, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.67) was associated with higher mortality risk. Conclusions Living in rural areas determines an increased risk of mortality in patients at final stages of heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel-Angel Muñoz
- Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain. .,Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Carrer Sardenya 375, Entresol, 08025, Barcelona, Spain. .,Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Preventive Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
| | - Raquel Garcia
- Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain.,Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Carrer Sardenya 375, Entresol, 08025, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Preventive Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Elena Navas
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Carrer Sardenya 375, Entresol, 08025, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julio Duran
- Clínica Sant Antoni. Institut Mèdic i de Rehabilitació, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José-Luis Del Val-Garcia
- Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain.,Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Carrer Sardenya 375, Entresol, 08025, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José-Maria Verdú-Rotellar
- Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain.,Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Carrer Sardenya 375, Entresol, 08025, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
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26
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Ko E, Fuentes D, Singh-Carlson S, Nedjat-Haiem F. Challenges and facilitators of hospice decision-making: a retrospective review of family caregivers of home hospice patients in a rural US-Mexico border region-a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035634. [PMID: 32611740 PMCID: PMC7332198 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hospice care (HC) is seen as a comprehensive approach, that enhances quality of end-of-life (EOL) care, for terminally ill patients. Despite its positive aspects, HC enrolment is disproportionate for rural patients, who are less likely to use HC in comparison to their urban counterparts. The purpose of this study was to explore decision-making experiences, related to utilisation of HC programmes from a retrospective perspective, with family caregivers (FCGs) in a rural US-Mexico border region. DESIGN This qualitative study was conducted from May 2017 to January 2018 using semistructured face to face interviews with FCGs. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. SETTING The HC programme was situated at a local home health agency, located in rural Southern California, USA. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-eight informal FCGs of patients who were actively enrolled in the HC programme agreed to participate in the study. RESULTS Conversation about HC as an option was initiated by home healthcare staff (39.3%), followed by physicians (32.1%). Emerging themes related to challenges in utilisation of HC and decision-making included: (1) communication barriers; (2) lack of knowledge/misperception about HC; (3) emotional difficulties, including fear of losing their patient, doubt and uncertainty about the decision, denial and (4) patients are not ready for HC. Facilitators included: (1) patient's known EOL wishes; (2) FCG-physician EOL communication; (3) the patient's deteriorating health and (4) home as the place for death. CONCLUSIONS HC patients' FCGs in this rural region reported a lack of knowledge or misunderstanding of HC. It is recommended that healthcare providers need to actively engage family members in patient's EOL care planning. Optimal transition to an HC programme can be facilitated when FCGs are informed and have a clear understanding about patients' medical status along with information about HC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunjeong Ko
- Social Work, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Dahlia Fuentes
- Social Work, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
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27
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Pilewski H. Introduction to Hospice and Palliative Medicine. PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT CLINICS 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpha.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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28
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Weaver MS, Robinson JE, Shostrom VK, Hinds PS. Telehealth Acceptability for Children, Family, and Adult Hospice Nurses When Integrating the Pediatric Palliative Inpatient Provider during Sequential Rural Home Hospice Visits. J Palliat Med 2020; 23:641-649. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2019.0450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Meaghann S. Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Jacob E. Robinson
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Valerie K. Shostrom
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Pamela S. Hinds
- Department of Nursing Science, Professional Practice and Quality, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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29
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Elk R, Emanuel L, Hauser J, Bakitas M, Levkoff S. Developing and Testing the Feasibility of a Culturally Based Tele-Palliative Care Consult Based on the Cultural Values and Preferences of Southern, Rural African American and White Community Members: A Program by and for the Community. Health Equity 2020; 4:52-83. [PMID: 32258958 PMCID: PMC7104898 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2019.0120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Lack of appreciation of cultural differences may compromise care for seriously ill minority patients, yet culturally appropriate models of palliative care (PC) are not currently available in the United States. Rural patients with life-limiting illness are at high risk of not receiving PC. Developing a PC model that considers the cultural preferences of rural African Americans (AAs) and White (W) citizens is crucial. The goal of this study was to develop and determine the feasibility of implementing a culturally based PC tele-consult program for rural Southern AA and W elders with serious illness and their families, and assess its acceptability to patients, their family members, and clinicians. Methods: This was a three-phase study conducted in rural Beaufort, South Carolina, from January 2013 to February 2016. We used Community-Based Participatory Research methods, including a Community Advisory Group (CAG) with equal numbers of AA and W members, to guide the study. Phase 1: Cultural values and preferences were determined through ethnic-based focus groups comprising family members (15 W and 16 AA) who had cared for a loved one who died within the past year. We conducted a thematic analysis of focus group transcripts, focused on cultural values and preferences, which was used as the basis for the study protocol. Phase 2: Protocol Development: We created a protocol team of eight CAG members, two researchers, two hospital staff members, and a PC physician. The PC physician explained the standard clinical guidelines for conducting PC consults, and CAG members proposed culturally appropriate programmatic recommendations for their ethnic group for each theme. All recommendations were incorporated into an ethnic-group specific protocol. Phase 3: The culturally based PC protocol was implemented by the PC physician via telehealth in the local hospital. We enrolled patients age ≥65 with a life-limiting illness who had a family caregiver referred by a hospitalist to receive the PC consult. To assess feasibility of program delivery, including its acceptability to patients, caregivers, and hospital staff, using Donebedian's Structure-Process-Outcome model, we measured patient/caregiver satisfaction with the culturally based consult by using an adaptation of FAMCARE-2. Results: Phase 1: Themes between W and AA were (1) equivalent: for example, disrespectful treatment of patients and family by hospital physicians; (2) similar but with variation: for example, although religion and church were important to both groups, and pastors in both ethnic groups helped family face the reality of end of life, AA considered the church unreservedly central to every aspect of life; (3) divergent, for example, AAs strongly believed that hope and miracles were always a possibility and that God was the decider, a theme not present in the W group. Phase 2: We incorporated ethnic group-specific recommendations for the culturally based PC consult into the standard PC consult. Phase 3: We tested feasibility and acceptability of the ethnically specific PC consult on 18 of 32 eligible patients. The telehealth system worked well. PC MD implementation fidelity was 98%. Most patients were non-verbal and could not rate satisfaction with consult; however, caregivers were satisfied or very satisfied. Hospital leadership supported program implementation, but hospitalists only referred 18 out of 28 eligible patients. Conclusions: The first culturally based PC consult program in the United States was developed in partnership with AA and W Southern rural community members. This program was feasible to implement in a small rural hospital but low referral by hospitalists was the major obstacle. Program effectiveness is currently being tested in a randomized clinical trial in three southern, rural states in partnership with hospitalists. This method can serve as a model that can be replicated and adapted to other settings and with other ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronit Elk
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Linda Emanuel
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - Joshua Hauser
- Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - Marie Bakitas
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Department of Acute, Chronic and Continuing Care, School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Sue Levkoff
- College of Social Work, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
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30
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Harrington RA, Califf RM, Balamurugan A, Brown N, Benjamin RM, Braund WE, Hipp J, Konig M, Sanchez E, Joynt Maddox KE. Call to Action: Rural Health: A Presidential Advisory From the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. Circulation 2020; 141:e615-e644. [PMID: 32078375 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000000753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Understanding and addressing the unique health needs of people residing in rural America is critical to the American Heart Association's pursuit of a world with longer, healthier lives. Improving the health of rural populations is consistent with the American Heart Association's commitment to health equity and its focus on social determinants of health to reduce and ideally to eliminate health disparities. This presidential advisory serves as a call to action for the American Heart Association and other stakeholders to make rural populations a priority in programming, research, and policy. This advisory first summarizes existing data on rural populations, communities, and health outcomes; explores 3 major groups of factors underlying urban-rural disparities in health outcomes, including individual factors, social determinants of health, and health delivery system factors; and then proposes a set of solutions spanning health system innovation, policy, and research aimed at improving rural health.
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31
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Bakitas M, Allen Watts K, Malone E, Dionne-Odom JN, McCammon S, Taylor R, Tucker R, Elk R. Forging a New Frontier: Providing Palliative Care to People With Cancer in Rural and Remote Areas. J Clin Oncol 2020; 38:963-973. [PMID: 32023156 DOI: 10.1200/jco.18.02432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence supports oncology organizations' recommendations of early palliative care as a cancer care best practice for patients with advanced cancer and/or high symptom burden. However, few trials on which these best practices are based have included rural and remote community-based oncology care. Therefore, little is known about whether early palliative care models are applicable in these low-resource areas. This literature synthesis identifies some of the challenges of integrating palliative care in rural and remote cancer care. Prominent themes include being mindful of rural culture; adapting traditional geographically based specialty care delivery models to under-resourced rural practices; and using novel palliative care education delivery methods to increase community-based health professional, layperson, and family palliative expertise to account for limited local specialty palliative care resources. Although there are many limitations, many rural and remote communities also have strengths in their capacity to provide high-quality care by capitalizing on close-knit, committed community practitioners, especially if there are receptive local palliative and hospice care champions. Hence, adapting palliative care models, using culturally appropriate novel delivery methods, and providing remote education and support to existing community providers are promising advances to aid rural people to manage serious illness and to die in place. Reformulating health policy and nurturing academic-community partnerships that support best practices are critical components of providing early palliative care for everyone everywhere.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emily Malone
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | | | | | | | | | - Ronit Elk
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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32
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Weaver MS, Jenkins R, Wichman C, Robinson JE, Potthoff MR, Menicucci T, Vail CA. Sowing Across a State: Development and Delivery of a Grassroots Pediatric Palliative Care Nursing Curriculum. J Palliat Care 2019; 36:22-28. [PMID: 31771423 DOI: 10.1177/0825859719889700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rural pediatricians and adult-trained hospice teams report feeling ill-prepared to care for children at end of life, resulting in geographies in which children are not able to access home-based services. OBJECTIVES To develop a pediatric palliative care curriculum for inpatient nurses and adult-trained hospice teams caring for children in a rural region. METHODS Curriculum design and delivery was informed by local culture through an interdisciplinary, iterative development approach with confidence, intention, and support measured pre-, post-, and 4 months after delivery. A needs assessment was completed by pediatric nurses caring for children receiving palliative or end-of-life care to inform curricular content (phase 1). A curriculum was designed by an interdisciplinary pediatric palliative care team and piloted with nursing cohorts annually through educational conferences with monthly discussion series for 3 consecutive years (phase 2). Curricular content was then provided for 31 rural hospice team members (phase 3). RESULTS Self-reported confidence in caring for children increased by 1.1/10 points for adult-trained hospice team members. Mean score for intention to care for children increased by 5.2 points (sustained 5.1 points above baseline at 4 months). Perception of support in caring for children increased by 5 points (mean sustained 5.4 points above baseline at 4 months). Family needs, care goals, and symptom management were prioritized learning topics. Rural hospices previously unwilling to accept children enrolled pediatric patients in the 4 months following the conference. CONCLUSION Grassroots curricular initiatives and ongoing educational mentorship can grow pediatric palliative and hospice services in rural regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meaghann S Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, 20635Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Rebecca Jenkins
- Department of Pediatrics, 20635Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Christopher Wichman
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, 14720University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Jacob E Robinson
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, 20635Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | | | - Traci Menicucci
- Department of Pediatrics, 20635Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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33
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Ko E, Fuentes D. End-of-Life Communication Between Providers and Family Caregivers of Home Hospice Patients in a Rural US-Mexico Border Community: Caregivers' Retrospective Perspectives. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2019; 37:329-335. [PMID: 31665903 DOI: 10.1177/1049909119885099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Family caregiver-provider communication is essential to making an effective hospice care transition for patients. Despite the importance of this topic, there is little information about how caregivers in rural US-Mexico border regions navigate hospice care transition and their needs. This study explores the family caregivers' experience relating to their end-of-life (EOL) communication and needs for hospice care transition. METHODS In-depth interviews using qualitative methods were conducted with 28 informal caregivers of patients who are enrolled in home hospice care in a rural US-Mexico border region. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data. RESULTS Qualitative themes that emerged include (1) lack of/insufficient EOL communication and (2) informational needs, including (a) signs of symptom changes, (b) EOL treatment options and goals of care, and (c) hospice care and its benefits. Limited caregiver-provider EOL communication was observed, in which the majority of the caregivers (n = 22, 78.6%) were informed of the patient's terminal condition, but only half (n = 15, 53.6%) had a discussion with the providers about hospice care. CONCLUSION Timely EOL communication between caregivers and the providers is key to the patient's optimal transition to hospice care. Providers need to be aware of the caregivers' informational needs relating to patient symptoms and health condition as well as hospice care. It is important to be aware of the impact of cultural values on hospice care placement. A clear explanation about the purpose and functions of hospice care and its benefit can better guide the family caregivers in making hospice care decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunjeong Ko
- School of Social Work, San Diego State University, CA, USA
| | - Dahlia Fuentes
- School of Social Work, San Diego State University, CA, USA
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34
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Ding J, Saunders C, Cook A, Johnson CE. End-of-life care in rural general practice: how best to support commitment and meet challenges? BMC Palliat Care 2019; 18:51. [PMID: 31238934 PMCID: PMC6593492 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0435-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have specifically assessed the scope, nature and challenges of palliative and end-of-life care in rural general practice. These knowledge gaps limit the development of evidence-based policies and services for patients in the last months of life. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of general practitioners (GPs) and other stakeholders on rural GPs' involvement and challenges in providing palliative and end-of-life care in regional Australia. METHODS A qualitative study involving five focus groups with 26 GPs based in rural/regional Western Australia together with 15 individual telephone interviews with four GPs and 11 other stakeholders involved in end-of-life care across Australia. RESULTS The rural GPs' central role in end-of-life care was recognized by the majority of participants but multiple challenges were also identified. Some challenges were comparable to those found in urban settings but others were more pronounced, including resource limitations and lack of training. Inappropriate payment models discouraged GPs' involvement in some aspects of end-of-life care, such as case conferences and home visits. Compared to GPs in urban settings, those in rural/regional communities often reported closer doctor-patient relationships and better care integration and collaboration. These positive aspects of care could be further developed to enhance service provision. Our study highlighted the importance of regular interactions with other professionals and patients in providing end-of-life care, but many GPs and other stakeholders found such interactions more challenging than the more "technical" aspects of care. CONCLUSIONS Rural/regional GPs appear to be disproportionately affected by inappropriate payment models and limited resources, but may benefit from closer doctor-patient relationships and better care integration and collaboration relative to urban GPs. Systematic collection of empirical data on GP management at end-of-life is required to build on these strengths and address the challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Ding
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, Western Australia 6009 Australia
| | - Christobel Saunders
- Medical School, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Angus Cook
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, Western Australia 6009 Australia
| | - Claire E. Johnson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria 3800 Australia
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35
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Mc Veigh C, Reid J, Carvalho P. Healthcare professionals' views of palliative care for American war veterans with non-malignant respiratory disease living in a rural area: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2019; 18:22. [PMID: 30813937 PMCID: PMC6394001 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0408-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic lung diseases, such as COPD, are a growing health concern within the veteran population. Palliative care programs have mainly focused on the needs of people with malignant disease in the past, however the majority of those worldwide needing palliative care have a non-malignant diagnosis. Additionally, palliative care provision can often be fragmented and varied dependent upon a patient's geographical location. This study aimed to explore palliative care provision for veterans with non-malignant respiratory disease, and their family carers, living in a rural area of America. METHODS Qualitative study involving a convenience sample of 16 healthcare professionals from a large veteran hospital in Boise, Idaho. Data collection consisted of 5 focus groups which were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Healthcare professionals perceived that a lack of education regarding disease progression enhanced feelings of anxiety amongst veterans with NMRD, and their family carers. Additionally, the uncertain disease trajectory impeded referral to palliative and hospice services due to healthcare professionals own ambiguity regarding the veteran's prognosis. A particular barrier also related to this particular patient population, was a perceived lack of ability to afford relevant services and a lack of local palliative service provision. Healthcare professionals expressed that a compounding factor to palliative care uptake was the perceptions held by the veteran population. Healthcare professionals expressed that alongside aligning palliative care with dying, veterans also viewed accepting palliative care as 'surrendering' to their disease. Findings indicated that telemedicine may be a beneficial platform to which palliative care can be provided to veterans with NMRD, and their family carers, in rural areas using a digital platform. CONCLUSION Non-malignant respiratory disease is a life limiting condition commonly experienced within the veteran population. A new model of palliative care utilising a dynamic digital platform for this particular veteran population may provide an optimal way of providing efficient holistic care to areas with limited palliative services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Mc Veigh
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
| | - Joanne Reid
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Paula Carvalho
- Pulmonary and MICU, Boise VA Medical Centre, Boise, USA.,Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Doolittle GC, Nelson EL, Spaulding AO, Lomenick AF, Krebill HM, Adams NJ, Kuhlman SJ, Barnes JL. TeleHospice: A Community-Engaged Model for Utilizing Mobile Tablets to Enhance Rural Hospice Care. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2019; 36:795-800. [DOI: 10.1177/1049909119829458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In rural communities, providing hospice care can be a challenge. Hospice personnel sometimes travel great distances to reach patients, resulting in difficulty maintaining access, quality, cost-effectiveness, and safety. In 1998, the University of Kansas Medical Center piloted the country’s first TeleHospice (TH) service. At that time, challenges with broad adoption due to cost and attitudes regarding technology were noted. A second TH project was launched in early 2017 using newer technology; this article updates that ongoing implementation. Methods: The Organizational Change Manager was followed for the guided selection of the hospice partner. The University of Kansas Medical Center partnered with Hospice Services, Inc. (HSI), a leader in rural hospice care, providing services to 16 Kansas counties. Along with mobile tablets, a secure cloud-based videoconferencing solution was chosen for ease of use. Results: From August 2017 through January 2018, 218 TH videoconferencing encounters including 917 attendees occurred. Calls were made for direct patient care, family support, and administrative purposes. These TH calls have been shown to save HSI money, and initial reports suggest they may strengthen the communication and relationships between staff, patients, and the patient’s family. Conclusion: Finding innovative, cost-effective, and community-driven approaches such as TH are needed to continually advance hospice care. TeleHospice’s potential to supplement and improve hospice services while reducing costs is significant, but continued research is needed to understand best fit within frontier hospices, to inform future urban applications, and to address reimbursement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary C. Doolittle
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Oncology, The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Sandy J. Kuhlman
- Hospice Services and Palliative Care of Northwest Kansas, Inc, Phillipsburg, KS, USA
| | - Joe L. Barnes
- Hospice Services and Palliative Care of Northwest Kansas, Inc, Phillipsburg, KS, USA
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Conlon MSC, Caswell JM, Santi SA, Ballantyne B, Meigs ML, Knight A, Earle CC, Hartman M. Access to Palliative Care for Cancer Patients Living in a Northern and Rural Environment in Ontario, Canada: The Effects of Geographic Region and Rurality on End-of-Life Care in a Population-Based Decedent Cancer Cohort. Clin Med Insights Oncol 2019; 13:1179554919829500. [PMID: 30799969 PMCID: PMC6378418 DOI: 10.1177/1179554919829500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to palliative care has been associated with improving quality of life and reducing the use of potentially aggressive end-of-life care. However, many challenges and barriers exist in providing palliative care to residents in northern and rural settings in Ontario, Canada. AIM The purpose of this study was to examine access to palliative care and associations with the use of end-of-life care in a decedent cohort of northern and southern, rural and urban, residents. DESIGN Using linked administrative databases, residents were classified into geographic and rural categories. Regression methods were used to define use and associations of palliative and end-of-life care and death in acute care hospital. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS A decedent cancer cohort of Ontario residents (2007-2012). RESULTS Northern rural residents were less likely to receive palliative care (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.83-0.97). Those not receiving palliative care were more likely to receive potentially aggressive end-of-life care and die in an acute care hospital (adjusted OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.02-1.41). CONCLUSIONS Palliative care was significantly associated with reduced use of aggressive end-of-life care; however, disparities exist in rural locations, especially those in the north. Higher usage of emergency department (ED) and hospital resources at end of life in rural locations also reflects differing roles of rural community hospitals compared with urban hospitals. Improving access to palliative care in rural and northern locations is an important care issue and may reduce use of potentially aggressive end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael SC Conlon
- Epidemiology, Outcomes & Evaluation Research, Health Sciences North Research Institute (HSNRI), Sudbury, ON, Canada
- ICES North Satellite Site, Health Sciences North Research Institute (HSNRI), Sudbury, ON, Canada
- Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Joseph M Caswell
- Epidemiology, Outcomes & Evaluation Research, Health Sciences North Research Institute (HSNRI), Sudbury, ON, Canada
- ICES North Satellite Site, Health Sciences North Research Institute (HSNRI), Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Stacey A Santi
- Epidemiology, Outcomes & Evaluation Research, Health Sciences North Research Institute (HSNRI), Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Barbara Ballantyne
- Systemic Therapy Program, Northeast Cancer Centre, Health Sciences North, Sudbury, ON, Canada
- Northeast Cancer Centre, Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON, Canada
- The Ontario Palliative Care Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Margaret L Meigs
- Epidemiology, Outcomes & Evaluation Research, Health Sciences North Research Institute (HSNRI), Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew Knight
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, ON, Canada
- Systemic Therapy Program, Northeast Cancer Centre, Health Sciences North, Sudbury, ON, Canada
- Northeast Cancer Centre, Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON, Canada
- The Ontario Palliative Care Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Cancer Care Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Craig C Earle
- Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mark Hartman
- Northeast Cancer Centre, Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON, Canada
- Cancer Care Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Rainsford S, Phillips CB, Glasgow NJ, MacLeod RD, Wiles RB. The 'safe death': An ethnographic study exploring the perspectives of rural palliative care patients and family caregivers. Palliat Med 2018; 32:1575-1583. [PMID: 30229700 DOI: 10.1177/0269216318800613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In rural settings, relationships between place and self are often stronger than for urban residents, so one may expect that rural people would view dying at home as a major feature of the 'good death'. AIM To explore the concept of the 'good death' articulated by rural patients with life-limiting illnesses, and their family caregivers. DESIGN Ethnography, utilising open-ended interviews, observations and field-notes. PARTICIPANTS In total, 12 rural (town and farm) patients with life-limiting illnesses, 18 family caregivers and 6 clinicians, in the Snowy Monaro region of New South Wales, Australia, participated in this study over the course of the deaths of the patients. Interviews were transcribed and analysed with observational data using an emergent thematic process. RESULTS A 'safe death' was central to a 'good death' and was described as a death in which one could maintain (1) a connection with one's previous identity; (2) autonomy and control over decisions regarding management of end-of-life care and (3) not being overwhelmed by the physical management of the dying process. For all participants, the preferred place of death was the 'safe place', regardless of its physical location. CONCLUSION Safety, in this study, is related to a familiar place for death. A home death is not essential for and does not ensure a 'good death'. We all have a responsibility to ensure all places for dying can deliver the 'safe death'. Future research could explore the inter-relationships between safety and preference for home or home-like places of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Rainsford
- 1 Medical School, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | | | - Nicholas J Glasgow
- 1 Medical School, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Roderick D MacLeod
- 2 HammondCare, Greenwich, NSW, Australia.,3 Palliative Medicine, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert B Wiles
- 4 Rural Clinical School, Australian National University, Cooma, NSW, Australia
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Abstract
Palliative care consultation is associated with reduced health care costs and improved quality of life while reducing length of stay. Small rural hospitals lack the depth of multidisciplinary resources to provide inpatient palliative care consult services. The purpose of this research was to assess the need for palliative care service in rural hospitals, while examining for a difference in hospital readmission rates in hospitals lacking palliative consult services. Data were obtained from the Pennsylvania Health Cost Containment Counsel including 3 hospitals with palliative programs and 3 without. Inclusion criteria were admissions for a patient carrying a diagnosis appropriate for palliative consultation between the last quarter of 2014 and 2015. There were 1394 index patients admitted to 3 rural hospitals lacking a palliative consult program. There was a higher rate of readmissions at the nonpalliative hospitals, 71.6% versus 55.1% (P < .001). Data suggest there is a need for palliative telemedicine services to meet needs in rural hospitals.
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Bonsignore L, Bloom N, Steinhauser K, Nichols R, Allen T, Twaddle M, Bull J. Evaluating the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Telehealth Program in a Rural Palliative Care Population: TapCloud for Palliative Care. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 56:7-14. [PMID: 29551433 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The impact of telehealth and remote patient monitoring has not been well established in palliative care populations in rural communities. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to 1) describe a telehealth palliative care program using the TapCloud remote patient monitoring application and videoconferencing; 2) evaluate the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of a telehealth system in palliative care; and 3) use a quality data assessment collection tool in addition to TapCloud ratings of symptom burden and hospice transitions. METHODS A mixed-methods approach was used to assess feasibility, usability, and acceptability. Quantitative assessments included patient symptom burden and improvement, hospice transitions, and advanced directives. Qualitative semistructured interviews on a subpopulation of telehealth patients, caregivers, and providers were performed to learn about their experiences using TapCloud. RESULTS One-hundred one palliative care patients in rural Western North Carolina were enrolled in the program. The mean age of patients enrolled was 72 years, with a majority (60%) being female and a pulmonary diagnosis accounting for the largest percentage of patients (23%). Remote patient monitoring using TapCloud resulted in improved symptom management, and patients in the model had a hospice transition rate of 35%. Patients, caregivers, and providers reported overwhelmingly positive experiences with telehealth with three main advantages: 1) access to clinicians, 2) quick responses, and 3) improved efficiency and quality of care. CONCLUSION This is one of the first articles to describe a telehealth palliative care program and to demonstrate acceptability, feasibility, and usability as well as describe symptom outcomes and hospice transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicholas Bloom
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Reginald Nichols
- Four Seasons Compassion for Life, Flat Rock, North Carolina, USA
| | - Todd Allen
- Four Seasons Compassion for Life, Flat Rock, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Janet Bull
- Four Seasons Compassion for Life, Flat Rock, North Carolina, USA
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Rine CM. Is Social Work Prepared for Diversity in Hospice and Palliative Care? HEALTH & SOCIAL WORK 2018; 43:41-50. [PMID: 29244119 DOI: 10.1093/hsw/hlx048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to assess current and future trends in hospice and palliative care with the objective of informing culturally appropriate best practice for social work. Concern for the intersectionality of racial, ethnic, social, and other differences in end-of-life (EOL) care is imperative given the ever growing range of diversity characteristics among the increasing aging populations in the United States. A review of literature from the current decade that is pertinent to the profession contributes to the ability of social work to consider evidence and build agreement germane to EOL practice settings. Administrative reports, government data, academic literature, professional standards, and assessment tools contribute to the profession's ability to work toward cultural competence and develop practice strategies for EOL care. The varied roles held by social workers across health care arenas provide a unique opportunity to promote cultural competence and advance best practice on all levels of work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Rine
- Christine M. Rine, PhD, is assistant professor, Department of Social Work, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, 235 Scotland Road, Hendricks Hall G-37, Edinboro, PA 16444; e-mail:
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Seow H, Arora A, Barbera L, McGrail K, Lawson B, Burge F, Sutradhar R. Does access to end-of-life homecare nursing differ by province and community size?: A population-based cohort study of cancer decedents across Canada. Health Policy 2017; 122:134-139. [PMID: 29254648 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2017.11.014] [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: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have demonstrated the strong association between increased end-of-life homecare nursing use and reduced acute care utilization. However, little research has described the utilization patterns of end-of-life homecare nursing and how this differs by region and community size. METHODS A retrospective population-based cohort study of cancer decedents from Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia was conducted between 2004 and 2009. Provinces linked administrative databases which provide data about homecare nursing use for the last 6 months of life for each cancer decedent. Among weekly users of homecare nursing in their last six months of life, we describe the proportion of patients receiving end-of-life homecare nursing by province and community size. RESULTS Our cohort included 83,746 cancer decedents across 3 provinces. Patients receiving end-of-life nursing among homecare nursing users increased from weeks -26 to -1 before death by: 78% to 93% in British Columbia, 40% to 81% in Ontario, and 52% to 91% in Nova Scotia. In all 3 provinces, the smallest community size had the lowest proportion of patients using end-of-life nursing compared to the second largest community size, which had the highest proportion. CONCLUSIONS Differences in end-of-life homecare nursing use are much larger between provinces than between community sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien Seow
- McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | | | - Lisa Barbera
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kim McGrail
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Fred Burge
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Rinku Sutradhar
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Ward J. Physician Aid in Dying: Caught Between the Extremes. J Oncol Pract 2017; 13:667-669. [PMID: 28876157 DOI: 10.1200/jop.2017.026377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Tedder T, Elliott L, Lewis K. Analysis of common barriers to rural patients utilizing hospice and palliative care services: An integrated literature review. J Am Assoc Nurse Pract 2017; 29:356-362. [PMID: 28560759 DOI: 10.1002/2327-6924.12475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The aim of this literature review is to explore barriers and potential solutions related to hospice (HC) and palliative care (PC) services among rural residents. Although the healthcare system is continually advancing, healthcare providers may not be optimizing HC and PC referrals for the growing rural population who underutilize these services. Suggested methods to close the utilization gap between HC and PC services among rural patients appear feasible, but universal effectiveness cannot be determined. METHODS An integrative literature review was conducted to evaluate diverse sources of literature. An electronic literature search was carried out using databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane, PsycINFO, and Pubmed. The search was limited to English only, full text, peer reviewed, and published between 2010 and 2016. Search terms included rural, hospice, palliative, care access, and barriers. CONCLUSION There are several barriers that interrelate to decreased utilization of PC and HC for rural populations and there are many options for overcoming them to equalize care. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Although advances to the general healthcare system are expediently rising, the rural patient population seems to fall short of these important life-changing services, especially in the realm of PC/HC. Beginning in primary care, this patient population can be affected and included in a positive manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Tedder
- MS(N) Program, Western Carolina University, Asheville, North Carolina
| | - Lydia Elliott
- MS(N) Program, Western Carolina University, Asheville, North Carolina
| | - Karen Lewis
- MS(N) Program, Western Carolina University, Asheville, North Carolina
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Abstract
The United States has 1332 critical access hospitals. These hospitals have fewer than 25 beds each and a mean daily census of 4.2 patients. Critical access hospitals are located in rural areas and provide acute inpatient services, ambulatory care, labor and delivery services, and general surgery. Some, but not all, critical access hospitals offer home care services; a few have palliative care programs. Because of the millions of patients living with serious and life-threatening conditions, the need for palliative care is increasing. As expert generalists, rural nurses are well positioned to provide care close to home for patients of all ages and the patients' families. A case report illustrates the role that nurses and critical access hospitals play in meeting the need for high-quality palliative care in rural settings. Working together, rural nurses and their urban nursing colleagues can provide palliative care across all health care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy Dale M Mayer
- Dorothy "Dale" M. Mayer is an assistant professor, College of Nursing, Montana State University, Missoula, Montana.Charlene A. Winters is a professor, College of Nursing, Montana State University.
| | - Charlene A Winters
- Dorothy "Dale" M. Mayer is an assistant professor, College of Nursing, Montana State University, Missoula, Montana.Charlene A. Winters is a professor, College of Nursing, Montana State University
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Willingness to use hospice care among caregivers of Latino patients in the United States–Mexico border region. Palliat Support Care 2016; 15:279-287. [PMID: 27609418 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951516000687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTObjective:Hospice is an important method of promoting quality end-of-life (EoL) care, yet its utilization is relatively low in underserved populations. The unique characteristics of a border community—such as a lack of healthcare resources and cultural integration—impact EoL decision making. The aim of our study was to assess the willingness to use hospice care services and its predictors among family caregivers of Latino patients in the United States (U.S.)–Mexico border region of Southern California.Method:This study analyzes secondary data from a home health agency in the U.S.–Mexico border region. Quantitative data were collected via a face-to-face interview with 189 caregivers of patients enrolled in the agency. Bivariate tests and logistic regression were employed to address our study objectives.Results:The majority (83%) of family caregivers were willing to use hospice services for their loved ones. The factors impacting willingness to use hospice services included the primary language of the caregiver (OR = 6.30, CI95% = 1.68, 23.58); trust in doctors to make the right decisions (OR = 3.77, CI95% = 1.05, 13.57); and the belief that using hospice care means giving up on life (OR = 0.52, CI95% = 0.30; 0.88). Caregivers who trusted doctors to make the best decisions for their loved ones and English-speaking caregivers were more willing to utilize hospice services, while caregivers who held a strong belief that hospice care means giving up on life were less likely to consider using hospice care for their loved ones.Significance of results:The willingness of family caregivers to use hospice services for their loved ones is influenced by cultural perspectives about hospice care. As the importance of family involvement in EoL care planning has been highlighted, family caregivers' beliefs about hospice care services need to be addressed within their particular cultural context.
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Rosenwax L, Spilsbury K, McNamara BA, Semmens JB. A retrospective population based cohort study of access to specialist palliative care in the last year of life: who is still missing out a decade on? BMC Palliat Care 2016; 15:46. [PMID: 27165411 PMCID: PMC4862038 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-016-0119-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Historically, specialist palliative care has been accessed by a greater proportion of people dying with cancer compared to people with other life-limiting conditions. More recently, a variety of measures to improve access to palliative care for people dying from non-cancer conditions have been implemented. There are few rigorous population-based studies that document changes in palliative care service delivery relative to the number of patients who could benefit from such services. Method A retrospective cohort study of the last year of life of persons with an underlying cause of death in 2009–10 from cancer, heart failure, renal failure, liver failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Alzheimer’s disease, motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and/or HIV/AIDS. The proportion of decedents receiving specialist palliative care was compared to a 2000–02 cohort. Logistic regression models were used identify social and demographic factors associated with accessing specialist palliative care. Results There were 12,817 deaths included into the cohort; 7166 (56 %) from cancer, 527 (4 %) from both cancer and non-cancer conditions and 5124 (40 %) from non-cancer conditions. Overall, 46.3 % of decedents received community and/or hospital based specialist palliative care; a 3.5 % (95 % CI 2.3–4.7) increase on specialist palliative care access reported ten years earlier. The majority (69 %; n = 4928) of decedents with cancer accessed palliative care during the last year of life. Only 14 % (n = 729) of decedents with non-cancer conditions accessed specialist palliative care, however, this represented a 6.1 % (95 % CI 4.9–7.3) increase on the specialist palliative care access reported for the same decedent group ten years earlier. Compared to decedents with heart failure, increased odds of palliative care access was observed for decedents with cancer (OR 10.5; 95 % CI 9.1–12.2), renal failure (OR 1.5; 95 % CI 1.3–1.9), liver failure (OR 2.3; 95 % CI 1.7–3.3) or motor neurone disease (OR 4.5; 95 % CI 3.1–6.6). Living in major cities, being female, having a partner and living in a private residence was associated with increased odds of access to specialist palliative care. Conclusion There is small but significant increase in access to specialist palliative care services in Western Australia, specifically in patients dying with non-cancer conditions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12904-016-0119-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna Rosenwax
- School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, 6845, Australia.
| | - Katrina Spilsbury
- Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Beverley A McNamara
- School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, 6845, Australia
| | - James B Semmens
- Centre for Population Health Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Torres L, Lindstrom K, Hannah L, Webb FJ. Exploring Barriers Among Primary Care Providers in Referring Patients to Hospice. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2016. [DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Allo JA, Cuello D, Zhang Y, Reddy SK, Azhar A, Bruera E. Patient Home Visits: Measuring Outcomes of a Community Model for Palliative Care Education. J Palliat Med 2016; 19:271-8. [PMID: 26652056 PMCID: PMC4779281 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2015.0275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care professionals may have limited exposure to home-based care. There is no published literature that has described the experiences and satisfaction of participation in patient home visits (PHV). OBJECTIVE The objective of this article is to describe the characteristics of PHV, our approach, and evaluation by participants over a nine-year period. METHODS We conducted a review of surveys completed by participants in PHV from 2005-2013. All participants anonymously completed the evaluation questionnaires at the end of PHVs. Different PHV assessment forms were used for the 2005-2010 and 2011-2013 time periods. RESULTS A total of 34 PHVs were conducted with 106 patients and approximately 750 participants with a mean of 3 patients and 22 participants per PHV between 2005 and 2013. For 18 PHVs there are 317 surveys completed with 353 participants, making it a 90% response rate. Responding participants were physicians 125/543 (23%) and other professionals 418/543 (77%). In both time periods of 2005-2010 and 2011-2013 a survey with a 1 (completely agree) to 5 (completely disagree) scale was used. Agreeing that PHV was an effective teaching tool during 2005-2010 were 335/341 (98%); during 2011-2013, 191/202 (95%) agreed that PHV provided increased understanding and sharing of best practices in palliative care. CONCLUSIONS PHV was perceived by participants as an effective way of providing interactive community education. A broad range of themes were addressed, and the participants reported high levels of learning in all domains of palliative care. There were no cases of patient or relative expression of distress as a result of PHV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio A. Allo
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Deanna Cuello
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Suresh K. Reddy
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Ahsan Azhar
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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Nathanson BH, McGee WT, Dietzen DL, Chen Q, Young J, Higgins TL. A State-Level Assessment of Hospital-Based Palliative Care and the Use of Life-Sustaining Therapies in the United States. J Palliat Med 2016; 19:421-7. [PMID: 26871522 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2015.0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unknown how the prevalence of hospitals with palliative care programs (PCPs) at the state level in the United States correlates with the treatment of critically ill patients. OBJECTIVE We examined the relationship between state-level PCP prevalence and commonly used treatments for critically ill patients as well as other public health metrics. METHODS We compiled state-level data for the year 2011 from multiple published sources. These included the poverty rate from the U.S. Census, public health measures such as the number of primary care physicians per 100,000 persons from America's Health Ranking website, and state-level rates for a series of validated ICD-9 (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision) procedure codes used for critically ill patients (e.g., prolonged acute mechanical ventilation [PAMV]) from the State Inpatient Databases (SID), Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP), and Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. State-level percentages of PCPs came from a published report by the Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC). We used the Kruskal-Wallis test and Pearson's correlation coefficient for statistical inference. RESULTS State-level poverty rates were negatively correlated with the percent of hospitals with PCPs: r = -0.39, p = 0.005. States with more hospital-based PCPs had significantly lower rates of PAMV, tracheostomies, and hemodialysis but higher rates of nutritional support than states with fewer PCPs. CONCLUSIONS States with more poverty and/or at high risk for delivering inefficient health care had fewer hospital PCPs. Hospital-based PCPs may influence the frequency of some interventions for critically ill patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William T McGee
- 2 Department of Medicine, Division of Critical Care, Baystate Medical Center , Springfield, Massachusetts.,4 Tufts University School of Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Diane L Dietzen
- 3 Division of Geriatrics and Post Acute Medicine, Baystate Medical Center , Springfield, Massachusetts.,4 Tufts University School of Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Quenica Chen
- 5 SCMDP at Newell Rubbermaid , East Longmeadow, Massachusetts
| | - Jared Young
- 6 School of Engineering, University of Massachusetts at Amherst , Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Thomas L Higgins
- 2 Department of Medicine, Division of Critical Care, Baystate Medical Center , Springfield, Massachusetts.,4 Tufts University School of Medicine , Boston, Massachusetts
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