Johnson CB, Slaninka SC. Barriers to accessing hospice services before a late terminal stage.
DEATH STUDIES 1999;
23:225-238. [PMID:
10848152 DOI:
10.1080/074811899201055]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Although hospice care has been available in the United States for over 25 years, the trend of late terminal access persists. Quality assessments and interventions that will continue through a year of bereavement are based on early interactions and the formation of caring and trusting bonds. A qualitative research study was conducted to identify and describe barriers to timely access as perceived by those involved in hospice care: caregivers, hospice staff and volunteers, and referring physicians. Major findings include persistent knowledge deficits including misconceptions and lack of awareness of components and skill associated with hospice care: reluctance to disclose, discuss, or acknowledge patient terminality, and access of hospice care being perceived as giving up on the patient.
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