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Jomar RT, Marques JTN, Oliveira LCD, Mendes GLQ, Cunha DADOD, Guimarães RM. Fatality from COVID-19 does not affect palliative care duration among patients with advanced cancer: a retrospective cohort study. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2024; 22:eAO0536. [PMID: 39356939 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2024ao0536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Jomar et al. demonstrated that death due to COVID-19 did not affect the time under exclusive palliative care among patients with advanced cancer, even during the first year of the pandemic caused by a hitherto little-known disease. BACKGROUND ◼ Fatality due to COVID-19 does not alter the time under oncological palliative care. BACKGROUND ◼ The retrospective design of this pioneering study allows causal inference. BACKGROUND ◼ Access to oncological palliative care frequently approaches terminality of life. OBJECTIVE This study aimed at investigating the extent to which COVID-19-induced fatalities affect the duration of palliative care among patients with advanced cancer. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Palliative Care Unit of the Brazilian Instituto Nacional de Câncer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 1,104 advanced cancer patients who died under exclusive palliative care between March 11, 2020, and March 31, 2021. Wilcoxon rank-sum (Mann-Whitney U) and log-rank tests were performed to examine statistical differences between the medians of time, and the Kaplan-Meier estimator was used to graphically illustrate survival over time under exclusive palliative care contingent upon the underlying causes of death of the two experimental groups (cancer versus COVID-19). RESULTS A total of 133 (12.05%) patients succumbed to COVID-19. In both groups, the median time under exclusive palliative care was less than one month. The exclusive palliative care survival curves did not exhibit any statistically significant difference between the groups. CONCLUSION Death due to COVID-19 did not modify the duration of exclusive palliative care among patients with advanced cancer.
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McLouth LE, Borger T, Hoerger M, Stapleton JL, McFarlin J, Heckman PE, Bursac V, Shearer A, Shelton B, Mullett T, Studts JL, Goebel D, Thind R, Trice L, Schoenberg NE. Clinician perspectives on delivering primary and specialty palliative care in community oncology practices. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:627. [PMID: 39222247 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08816-5] [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: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Clinical guidelines recommend early palliative care for patients with advanced lung cancer. In rural and underserved community oncology practices with limited resources, both primary palliative care from an oncologist and specialty palliative care are needed to address patients' palliative care needs. The aim of this study is to describe community oncology clinicians' primary palliative care practices and perspectives on integrating specialty palliative care into routine advanced lung cancer treatment in rural and underserved communities. METHODS Participants were clinicians recruited from 15 predominantly rural community oncology practices in Kentucky. Participants completed a one-time survey regarding their primary palliative care practices and knowledge, barriers, and facilitators to integrating specialty palliative care into advanced-stage lung cancer treatment. RESULTS Forty-seven clinicians (30% oncologists) participated. The majority (72.3%) of clinicians worked in a rural county. Over 70% reported routinely asking patients about symptom and physical function concerns, whereas less than half reported routinely asking about key prognostic concerns. Roughly 30% held at least one palliative care misconception (e.g., palliative care is for only those who are stopping cancer treatment). Clinician-reported barriers to specialty palliative care referrals included fear a referral would send the wrong message to patients (77%) and concern about burdening patients with appointments (53%). Notably, the most common clinician-reported facilitator was a patient asking for a referral (93.6%). CONCLUSION Educational programs and outreach efforts are needed to inform community oncology clinicians about palliative care, empower patients to request referrals, and facilitate patients' palliative care needs assessment, documentation, and standardized referral templates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurie E McLouth
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 760 Press Avenue, 467 Healthy Kentucky Research Building, Lexington, KY, USA.
- Center for Health, Engagement, and Transformation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA.
| | - Tia Borger
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Michael Hoerger
- Departments of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Medicine, Freeman School of Business and Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University, New Orleans, USA
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, University Medical Center of New Orleans, New Orleans, USA
| | - Jerod L Stapleton
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jessica McFarlin
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Patrick E Heckman
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Vilma Bursac
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Andrew Shearer
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Brent Shelton
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Timothy Mullett
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jamie L Studts
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, USA
| | - David Goebel
- King's Daughters Health System, Ashland, KY, USA
| | | | | | - Nancy E Schoenberg
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 760 Press Avenue, 467 Healthy Kentucky Research Building, Lexington, KY, USA
- Center for Health, Engagement, and Transformation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
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3
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Gautama MSN, Damayanti A, Khusnia AF. Impact of Early Palliative Care to Improve Quality of Life of Advanced Cancer Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials. Indian J Palliat Care 2023; 29:28-35. [PMID: 36846281 PMCID: PMC9944329 DOI: 10.25259/ijpc_153_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Palliative care is often started late in patients with life-threatening conditions, particularly in patients with advanced cancer. However, with the emergence of the early palliative care (EPC) paradigm, their quality of life (QoL) may be better. Although several previous meta-analyses support the effectiveness of EPC in increasing QoL, essential issues related to the optimisation of EPC interventions are still needed. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted to determine the effectiveness of EPC on the QoL of patients with advanced cancer. PubMed, ProQuest, MEDLINE through EBSCOhost and Cochrane Library and clinicaltrials.gov (register website) were searched for RCTs published before May 2022. Data synthesis used the Review Manager 5.4 to generate pooled estimates of effect size. A total of 12 empirical trials met the eligibility criteria and were included in this study. The results showed that EPC intervention had a significant effect (standard mean difference = 0.16, 95% confidence interval: 0.04, 0.28, Z = 2.68, P < 0.05). However, the secondary outcomes showed including mood (mean difference = -0.90, 95% CI: -2.32, 0.51, P > 0.05) and symptom controls (MD = -1.49, 95% CI: -3.81, 0.81, P > 0.05) had no significant effect. EPC is effective in improving the QoL of patients with advanced cancer. However, other outcomes still need to be reviewed, because the review of QoL is not enough to generalise the benchmarks for the effectiveness and optimisation of EPC interventions. Another notable aspect is to consider the most effective and efficient duration for starting and ending EPC interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Made Satya Nugraha Gautama
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Master of Nursing Program, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Adelina Damayanti
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Master of Nursing Program, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Anindita Farda Khusnia
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Master of Nursing Program, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
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4
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Pini S, Bekker HL, Bennett M, Ziegler L. A Structured Intervention to Support Early Palliative Care Conversations for Oncology Patients - A Qualitative Feasibility Study. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2022; 34:e515-e522. [PMID: 35659476 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2022.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
AIMS For patients with advanced cancer, early access to palliative care can have numerous psychosocial and disease management benefits. However, it can be difficult for clinicians to initiate these initial conversations about palliative care. The aim of the present study was to beta test an intervention to facilitate timely conversations about palliative care between patients and clinicians. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study reported forms one stage of a complex intervention development study following Medical Research Council guidance for developing complex interventions. Feasibility was explored from patient and clinician perspectives in an oncology outpatient setting. RESULTS Sixteen patients and 18 clinicians participated. Three phases of the intervention were assessed through patient and clinician interviews. The analysis produced three themes in each phase: (i) Preparation (patient preparedness; healthcare professionals' perspectives on palliative care; administration, data and communication); (ii) STEP consultation (defining perspectives on palliative care; how palliative care fits with the current treatment plan; permission to explore future care); (iii) Outcomes (changes in perspective and approaches to coping; opening the door to future conversations; referrals and involvement of palliative services). CONCLUSIONS The STEP intervention generated important early conversations about end-of-life care that may otherwise not have occurred. No patients regretted having the STEP consultation, which resulted in palliative care referrals for some. Others felt better informed about the support services available and better able to have further conversations. Participating clinicians found the structured conversation guide useful, as it acted as a prompt for areas to cover, as well as providing an explicit way to open discussion about difficult topics.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Pini
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | - H L Bekker
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - M Bennett
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - L Ziegler
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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5
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Anderson TM, Farrell MM, Moss G, Gupta M, Mooney S, Daunov K, Savernick M, Frandsen J, Verrona K, Pecoraro A, Mance C, Garcia J, Lee RT. The perspectives of oncology healthcare providers on the role of palliative care in a comprehensive cancer center. Palliat Care 2022; 21:148. [PMID: 35999560 PMCID: PMC9400235 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-01039-7] [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: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative care (PC) is an essential part of oncologic care, but its optimal role within a cancer center remains unclear. This study examines oncology healthcare providers' perspectives about the role of PC at a comprehensive cancer center (CCC). METHODS Physicians, nurses, and other oncology healthcare providers at a CCC were surveyed for their opinions about the role of inpatient and outpatient PC, preferences for PC services, and barriers to referral. Chi-squared tests and multiple regression analyses were performed to explore associations. RESULTS We received 137/221 completed questionnaires (61% response rate). Respondents were generally female (78%), had ≤ 10 years of service (69%), and included physicians (32%), nurses (32%), and advanced practice providers (17%). Most respondents (82%) agreed that more patients could benefit from PC. They also agreed that PC is beneficial for both outpatient and inpatient management of complex pain (96 and 88%), complex symptoms (84 and 74%), and advanced cancer patients (80 and 64%). Transition to hospice (64 vs. 42%, p = 0.007) and goals of care (62 vs. 49%, p = 0.011) provided by PC services were more valued by respondents for the inpatient than for the outpatient setting. Barriers to utilizing PC included lack of availability, unsure of when to refer, and poor communication. The majority of respondents (83%) preferred a cancer focused PC team to provide high-quality care. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the majority of oncology health care providers believe that more patients could benefit from PC, but opinions vary regarding the roles of inpatient and outpatient PC. Barriers and areas for improvement include availability, referral process, and improved communication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Megan M Farrell
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Gabriel Moss
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mona Gupta
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.,University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jorge Garcia
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.,University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Richard T Lee
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA. .,University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH, USA. .,City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA.
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Freitas RD, Oliveira LCD, Mendes GLQ, Lima FLT, Chaves GV. Barreiras para o encaminhamento para o cuidado paliativo exclusivo: a percepção do oncologista. SAÚDE EM DEBATE 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/0103-1104202213306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Pacientes com câncer avançado demandam cuidados paliativos. Nosso objetivo foi o de avaliar as barreiras ao encaminhamento ao cuidado paliativo na percepção de oncologistas. Desenvolvemos um estudo com oncologistas de uma instituição de referência nacional, questionando-os quanto a aspectos da sua formação acadêmica, à compreensão dos significados de cuidados paliativos, bem como limites e benefícios do encaminhamento de pacientes a uma unidade de cuidados paliativos exclusivos. A análise qualitativa foi realizada por meio da técnica de análise de conteúdo de Bardin. Participaram 19 oncologistas, que, apesar de definirem o cuidado paliativo com características multidisciplinares, voltado para doença avançada, com o objetivo de melhorar a qualidade de vida, relataram dificuldades no encaminhamento relacionadas ao próprio profissional, expectativas dos pacientes ou familiares, obstinação terapêutica e características institucionais. A criação de um ‘time consultor’ nas unidades de cuidados usuais foi a principal estratégia relatada como potencial facilitadora para essa transição de cuidados. Concluímos que a deliberação do cuidado paliativo exclusivo para pacientes com câncer avançado é uma tarefa difícil, que perpassa diferentes barreiras. A dicotomia existente entre ‘tratamento’ e ‘paliação’ na modalidade do cuidado paliativo exclusivo deve ser repensada, contrapondo a ideia do cuidado paliativo ofertado a partir do diagnóstico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata de Freitas
- Instituto Nacional de Câncer José Alencar Gomes da Silva (Inca), Brasil
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7
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Abstract
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer related mortality worldwide. Despite numerous advances in treatments over the past decade, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains an incurable disease for most patients. The optimal treatment for all patients with locally advanced, but surgically resectable, NSCLC contains at least chemoradiation. Trimodality treatment with surgical resection has been a subject of debate for decades. For patients with unresectable or inoperable locally advanced disease, the incorporation of immunotherapy consolidation after chemoradiation has defined a new standard of care. For decades, the standard of care treatment for advanced stage NSCLC included only cytotoxic chemotherapy. However, with the introduction of targeted therapies and immunotherapy, the landscape of treatment has rapidly evolved. This review discusses the integration of these innovative therapies in the management of patients with newly diagnosed NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan Miller
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
| | - Nasser Hanna
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
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8
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Masoud B, Imane B, Naiire S. Patient awareness of palliative care: systematic review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2021; 13:136-142. [PMID: 34635546 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2021-003072] [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] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the barriers to the integration of palliative care within the process of patient care and treatment is the lack of awareness of patients about palliative care. In order to develop efficient resources to improve patient awareness, comprehensive information is required to determine the specific aspects of palliative care where a paucity of evidence on patient awareness exists. This review aims to synthesise evidence from previous studies in order to provide a comprehensive information set about the current state of patient awareness of palliative care. METHODS In this systematic literature review, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, Magiran, Scientific Information Database(SID) and Islamic Science Citation (ISC) were searched to identify articles published between 2000 and 2021 that considered patients' awareness of palliative care. RESULTS Of the 5347 articles found, 22 studies were retained after quality evaluation; three full-text articles were excluded. Nineteen articles are included in this review. More than half of the patients did not have any information about palliative care or hospice care. Some patients accurately defined hospice care and palliative care; other patients had misunderstandings about palliative care. Patients had limited information about pastoral care, social care and bereavement care. Patients' awareness about individuals or centres providing palliative care or hospice care was limited. Video presentation and distribution of information at the community level indicated that this method would be beneficial in increasing the awareness. CONCLUSION The review points to the need for patient education programmes and interventional studies to increase patients' awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahrami Masoud
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Bagheri Imane
- College of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Salmani Naiire
- Research Center for Nursing and Midwifery Care, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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9
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Al-Shahri MZ, Ateya H, Al-Shehri DM. Discordant Beliefs and Practices of Physicians Referring Cancer Patients to Palliative Care. PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2021.1887588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Heba Ateya
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dafer M. Al-Shehri
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Parajuli J, Hupcey JE. A Systematic Review on Barriers to Palliative Care in Oncology. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 38:1361-1377. [PMID: 33412898 DOI: 10.1177/1049909120983283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of people with cancer and the need for palliative care among this population is increasing in the United States. Despite this growing need, several barriers exist to the utilization of palliative care in oncology. The purpose of this study was to synthesize the evidence on the barriers to palliative care utilization in an oncology population. A systematic review of literature was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, CINAHL, and Psych Info databases were used for the literature search. Articles were included if they: 1) focused on cancer, (2) examined and discussed barriers to palliative care, and c) were peer reviewed, published in English, and had an accessible full text. A total of 29 studies (8 quantitative, 18 qualitative, and 3 mixed-methods) were identified and synthesized for this review. The sample size of the included studies ranged from 10 participants to 313 participants. The barriers to palliative care were categorized into barriers related to the patient and family, b) barriers related to providers, and c) barriers related to the healthcare system or policy. The factors identified in this review provide guidance for intervention development to mitigate the existing barriers and facilitate the use palliative care in individuals with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Judith E Hupcey
- 311285The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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11
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Hausner D, Tricou C, Mathews J, Wadhwa D, Pope A, Swami N, Hannon B, Rodin G, Krzyzanowska MK, Le LW, Zimmermann C. Timing of Palliative Care Referral Before and After Evidence from Trials Supporting Early Palliative Care. Oncologist 2021; 26:332-340. [PMID: 33284483 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence from randomized controlled trials has demonstrated benefits in quality of life outcomes from early palliative care concurrent with standard oncology care in patients with advanced cancer. We hypothesized that there would be earlier referral to outpatient palliative care at a comprehensive cancer center following this evidence. MATERIALS AND METHODS Administrative databases were reviewed for two cohorts of patients: the pre-evidence cohort was seen in outpatient palliative care between June and November 2006, and the post-evidence cohort was seen between June and November 2015. Timing of referral was categorized, according to time from referral to death, as early (>12 months), intermediate (>6 months to 12 months), and late (≤6 months from referral to death). Univariable and multivariable ordinal logistic regression analyses were used to determine demographic and medical factors associated with timing of referral. RESULTS Late referrals decreased from 68.8% pre-evidence to 44.8% post-evidence; early referrals increased from 13.4% to 31.1% (p < .0001). The median time from palliative care referral to death increased from 3.5 to 7.0 months (p < .0001); time from diagnosis to referral was also reduced (p < .05). On multivariable regression analysis, earlier referral to palliative care was associated with post-evidence group (p < .0001), adjusting for shorter time since diagnosis (p < .0001), referral for pain and symptom management (p = .002), and patient sex (p = .04). Late referrals were reduced to <50% in the breast, gynecological, genitourinary, lung, and gastrointestinal tumor sites. CONCLUSIONS Following robust evidence from trials supporting early palliative care for patients with advanced cancer, patients were referred substantially earlier to outpatient palliative care. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Following published evidence demonstrating the benefit of early referral to palliative care for patients with advanced cancer, there was a substantial increase in early referrals to outpatient palliative care at a comprehensive cancer center. The increase in early referrals occurred mainly in tumor sites that have been included in trials of early palliative care. These results indicate that oncologists' referral practices can change if positive consequences of earlier referral are demonstrated. Future research should focus on demonstrating benefits of early palliative care for tumor sites that have tended to be omitted from early palliative care trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hausner
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Palliative Care Service, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Colombe Tricou
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Palliative Care, Centre Hospitalier de Lyon-Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Jean Mathews
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Deepa Wadhwa
- BC Cancer - Kelowna, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ashley Pope
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nadia Swami
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Breffni Hannon
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Gary Rodin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Monika K Krzyzanowska
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lisa W Le
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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12
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Li Z, Jiang S, Xu C, Lu F, He R, Pan Z, Zhang P, Zhang L. Determinants of place of death for end-stage cancer patients: evidence from China. Int J Qual Health Care 2020; 32:41-47. [PMID: 31297534 DOI: 10.1093/intqhc/mzz064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine factors influence place of death (POD) for end-stage cancer patients and investigate how the healthcare utilization mediates on the effect of socioeconomic status (SES) on POD. DESIGN A population-based, retrospective study from July 2015 to June 2017. SETTING Yichang, China. PARTICIPANTS 894 end-stage cancer patients. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE POD. RESULTS Patients of hospital death experience more inpatient hospitalization services (IHS) and emergency department visits. Patients enrolled in the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme (OR = 7.60, P < 0.001) and Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance (OR = 28.0, P < 0.001) have higher rates of hospital death than those in the Urban Resident-based Basic Medical Insurance. Living with spouse (OR = 1.72, P = 0.019) and receiving higher education (OR = 1.92, P = 0.004), increase the likelihood of hospital death by 72% and 92%, respectively. The probability of hospital death will increase by 14% and decrease by 4% per IHS and outpatient services occur, respectively. Outpatient services (Z = -2.28, P < 0.001), and IHS (Z = 2.17, P < 0.001) mediate 1.81% and 1.89%, respectively, of the effect of health insurance on POD. The overall effect of the mediators is non-statistically significant (Z = 0.09, P = 0.825). CONCLUSION POD is mainly driven by SES. The relationship between health insurance and POD is partly mediated by outpatient services and IHS, respectively. The results corroborated that hospital and home services should be coherently bridged. Furthermore, benefit packages for end-stage cancer patients could be redesigned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Li
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.,Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- School of Health Policy and Management, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chengzhong Xu
- Yichang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Fangfang Lu
- Yichang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Ruibo He
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.,Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zijin Pan
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.,Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Pei Zhang
- Yichang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.,Research Center for Rural Health Service, Key Research Institute of Humanities & Social Sciences of Hubei Provincial Department of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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13
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Salins N, Ghoshal A, Hughes S, Preston N. How views of oncologists and haematologists impacts palliative care referral: a systematic review. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:175. [PMID: 33228651 PMCID: PMC7686696 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00671-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, many patients with cancer, are infrequently referred to palliative care or are referred late. Oncologists and haematologists may act as gatekeepers, and their views may facilitate or hinder referrals to palliative care. This review aimed to identify, explore and synthesise their views on referrals systematically. METHODS Databases of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane were searched for articles from 01/01/1990 to 31/12/2019. All studies were scored for their methodological rigour using Hawker's tool. Findings were synthesised using Popay's narrative synthesis method and interpreted using a critical realist lens and social exchange theory. RESULTS Out of 9336 initial database citations, 23 studies were included for synthesis. Five themes were developed during synthesis. 1. Presuppositions of oncologists and haematologists about palliative care referral: Role conflict, abandonment, rupture of therapeutic alliance and loss of hope were some of the presuppositions that hindered palliative care referral. Negative emotions and perception of self-efficacy to manage palliative care need also hindered referral. 2. Power relationships and trust issues: Oncologists and haematologists preferred to gatekeep the referral process and wished to control and coordinate the care process. They had diminished trust in the competency of palliative care providers. 3. Making a palliative care referral: A daunting task: The stigma associated with palliative care, navigating illness and treatment associated factors, addressing patient and family attitudes, and overcoming organisational challenges made referral a daunting task. Lack of referral criteria and limited palliative care resources made the referral process challenging. 4. Cost-benefit of palliative care referral: Pain and symptom management and psychosocial support were the perceived benefits, whereas inconsistencies in communication and curtailment of care were some of the costs associated with palliative care referral. 5. Strategies to facilitate palliative care referral: Developing an integrated model of care, renaming and augmenting palliative care resources were some of the strategies that could facilitate a referral. CONCLUSION Presuppositions, power relationships, trust issues and the challenges associated with the task of referrals hindered palliative care referral. Oncologists and haematologists appraised the cost-benefit of making a palliative care referral. They felt that an integrated model of care, changing the name of palliative care and augmenting palliative care resources might facilitate a referral.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Salins
- Department of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Arunangshu Ghoshal
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Centre, MB-G-75, DR E Borges Road, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Sean Hughes
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Furness College, Lancaster University, C051, C - Floor, Bailrigg, LA1 4YW, UK
| | - Nancy Preston
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Furness College, Lancaster University, C051, C - Floor, Bailrigg, LA1 4YW, UK.
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14
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Pini S, Hackett J, Taylor S, Bekker HL, Kite S, Bennett MI, Ziegler L. Patient and professional experiences of palliative care referral discussions from cancer services: A qualitative interview study. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2020; 30:e13340. [PMID: 33051957 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this paper was to identify current barriers, facilitators and experiences of raising and discussing palliative care with people with advanced cancer. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients with advanced cancer and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Patients were included who had and had not been referred to palliative care. Transcripts were analysed using framework analysis. RESULTS Twenty-four patients and eight HCPs participated. Two overarching themes and five sub-themes emerged: Theme one-referral process: timing and triggers, responsibility. Theme two-engagement: perception of treatment, prognosis and palliative care, psychological and emotional preparedness for discussion, and understanding how palliative care could benefit present and future care. CONCLUSION There is a need to identify suitable patients earlier in their cancer trajectory, address misconceptions about palliative care, treatment and prognosis, and better prepare patients and HCPs to have meaningful conversations about palliative care. Patients and HCPs need to establish and communicate the relevance of palliative care to the patient's current and future care, and be clear about the referral process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Pini
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Julia Hackett
- Martin House Research Centre, Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, UK
| | - Sally Taylor
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Hilary L Bekker
- Leeds Unit for Complex Intervention Development (LUCID), Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Michael I Bennett
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Lucy Ziegler
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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15
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Sedhom R, Gupta A, Shah M, Hsu M, Messmer M, Murray J, Browner I, Smith TJ, Marrone K. Oncology Fellow-Led Quality Improvement Project to Improve Rates of Palliative Care Utilization in Patients With Advanced Cancer. JCO Oncol Pract 2020; 16:e814-e822. [PMID: 32339469 DOI: 10.1200/jop.19.00714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE ASCO guidelines recommend palliative care (PC) referral for patients with advanced or metastatic cancer. Despite this, implementation has considerable hurdles. First-year oncology fellows at our institution identified low rates of PC utilization in their longitudinal clinic as a metric needing improvement. METHODS A fellow-led multidisciplinary team aimed to increase PC utilization for patients with advanced cancer followed in he first-year fellows' clinic from a baseline of 11.5% (5 of 43 patients, July to December of 2018) to 30% over a 6-month period. Utilization was defined as evaluation in the outpatient PC clinic hosted in the cancer center. The team identified the following barriers to referral: orders difficult to find in the electronic medical record (EMR), multiple consulting mechanisms (EMR, by phone, or in person), EMR request not activating formal consult, no centralized scheduler to contact or confirm appointment, and poor awareness of team structure. Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were implemented based on identified opportunities. Data were obtained from the EMR. RESULTS The first PDSA cycle included focus groups with stakeholders, standardizing referral process via single order set, identifying a single scheduler with bidirectional communication, and disseminating process changes. PDSA cycles were implemented from January to June of 2019. Rates of PC use increased from 11.5% before the intervention to 48.4% (48 of 99 patients) after the intervention. CONCLUSION A multidisciplinary approach and classic quality improvement methodology improved PC use in patients with advanced cancer. The pilot succeeded given the small number of fellows, buy-in from stakeholders, and institutional and leadership support. Straightforward EMR interventions and ancillary staff use are effective in addressing underreferrals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy Sedhom
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Arjun Gupta
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Mirat Shah
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Melinda Hsu
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Marcus Messmer
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Joseph Murray
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Ilene Browner
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Thomas J Smith
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Kristen Marrone
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
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16
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Ryan S, Wong J, Chow R, Zimmermann C. Evolving Definitions of Palliative Care: Upstream Migration or Confusion? Curr Treat Options Oncol 2020; 21:20. [DOI: 10.1007/s11864-020-0716-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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17
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Barriers to palliative and hospice care utilization in older adults with cancer: A systematic review. J Geriatr Oncol 2019; 11:8-16. [PMID: 31699676 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2019.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The number of older adults with cancer and the need for palliative care among this population is increasing in the United States. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize the evidence on the barriers to palliative and hospice care utilization in older adults with cancer. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases (from inception to 2018) in accordance to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Research articles that examined palliative or hospice care utilization in older adults with cancer were included in this review. Fineout-Overholt's Level of Evidence was used for quality appraisal. A total of 19 studies were synthesized in this review. Barriers to palliative and hospice care utilization were categorized into socio-demographic barriers, provider-related barriers, and health insurance-related barriers. Findings revealed that male, racial minority, unmarried individuals, individuals with low socio-economic status or residing in rural areas, and fee-for-service enrollees were less likely to use palliative or hospice care. Lack of communication with care providers is also a barrier of using palliative or hospice care. The factors identified in this review provide guidance on identification of high-risk population and intervention development to facilitate the use of palliative and hospice care in older adults with cancer. Larger prospective studies on this topic are needed to address this critical issue.
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18
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Practices and opinions of specialized palliative care physicians regarding early palliative care in oncology. Support Care Cancer 2019; 28:877-885. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-04876-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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19
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Dhollander N, De Vleminck A, Deliens L, Van Belle S, Pardon K. Barriers to the early integration of palliative home care into the disease trajectory of advanced cancer patients: A focus group study with palliative home care teams. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2019; 28:e13024. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Dhollander
- End‐of‐Life Care Research Group Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University Brussels Belgium
| | - Aline De Vleminck
- End‐of‐Life Care Research Group Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University Brussels Belgium
| | - Luc Deliens
- End‐of‐Life Care Research Group Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University Brussels Belgium
- Department of Medical Oncology Ghent University Hospital Ghent Belgium
| | - Simon Van Belle
- End‐of‐Life Care Research Group Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University Brussels Belgium
- Department of Medical Oncology Ghent University Hospital Ghent Belgium
- Palliative Care Team Ghent University Hospital Ghent Belgium
| | - Koen Pardon
- End‐of‐Life Care Research Group Vrije Universiteit Brussel & Ghent University Brussels Belgium
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20
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Sarradon-Eck A, Besle S, Troian J, Capodano G, Mancini J. Understanding the Barriers to Introducing Early Palliative Care for Patients with Advanced Cancer: A Qualitative Study. J Palliat Med 2019; 22:508-516. [PMID: 30632886 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Palliative care is often underutilized or initiated late in the course of life-threatening illness. Randomized clinical Early Palliative Care (EPC) trials provide an opportunity for changing oncologists' perceptions of palliative care and their attitudes to referring patients to palliative care services. Aim: To describe French oncologists' perceptions of EPC and their effects on referral practices before a clinical EPC trial was launched. Design: A qualitative study involving semistructured face-to-face interviews. The data were analyzed using the Grounded Theory coding method. Setting/Participants: Thirteen oncologists and 19 palliative care specialists (PCSs) working at 10 hospitals all over France were interviewed. Most of them were involved in clinical EPC trials. Results: The findings suggest that referral to PCSs shortly after the diagnosis of advanced cancer increases the terminological barriers, induces avoidance patterns, and makes early disclosure of poor prognosis harder for oncologists. This situation is attributable to the widespread idea that palliative care means terminal care. In addition, the fact that the EPC concept is poorly understood increases the confusion between EPC and supportive care. Conclusion: Defining the EPC concept more clearly and explaining to health professionals and patients what EPC consists of and what role it is intended to play, and the potential benefits of palliative care services could help to overcome the wording barriers rooted in the traditional picture of palliative care. In addition, training French oncologists how to disclose "bad news" could help them cope with the emotional issues involved in referring patients to specialized palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Sarradon-Eck
- 1 Aix Marseille University, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Economics and Social Science Applied to Health & Analysis of Medical Information, Marseille, France.,2 Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Cancer, Biomedicine & Society, Marseille, France
| | - Sylvain Besle
- 1 Aix Marseille University, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Economics and Social Science Applied to Health & Analysis of Medical Information, Marseille, France.,3 Drug Development Department (DITEP), Gustave Roussy, University Paris-Sud, University Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Jaïs Troian
- 4 Aix-Marseille University, Psychologie, Marseille, France
| | - Géraldine Capodano
- 5 Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Département de Soins de Support et Palliatifs, Marseille, France
| | - Julien Mancini
- 6 Aix-Marseille University, APHM, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Economics and Social Science Applied to Health and Analysis of Medical Information, Hop Timone, BioSTIC, Biostatistique et Technologies de l'Information et de la Communication, Marseille, France
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21
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Yu JA, Ray KN, Park SY, Barry A, Smith CB, Ellis PG, Schenker Y. System-Level Factors Associated With Use of Outpatient Specialty Palliative Care Among Patients With Advanced Cancer. J Oncol Pract 2019; 15:e10-e19. [PMID: 30407881 PMCID: PMC7010434 DOI: 10.1200/jop.18.00234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The proportion of patients with advanced cancer who receive outpatient specialty palliative care (OSPC) is as low as 2.0%. Improved understanding of the system-level factors influencing use of OSPC could inform adaptations to the delivery of palliative care to maximize access. We examined associations between OSPC use among patients with advanced solid tumors and oncology-OSPC clinic colocation and patient travel time to an OSPC clinic. PATIENTS AND METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with advanced solid tumors receiving oncologic treatment between January 1 and December 31, 2016, within a comprehensive cancer center network with well-established, oncology-specific OSPC clinics. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the associations of clinic colocation and geographic access with OSPC use. RESULTS Of 9,485 patients with advanced solid tumors, 478 (5.0%) received OSPC services in 2016. After controlling for age, sex, marital status, cancer type, insurance, treatment intent, and illness severity, patients whose oncologist practices were colocated with OSPC clinics were more likely to use OSPC (odds ratio [OR], 19.2; 95% CI, 14.1 to 26.2). Compared with patients who lived > 90 minutes from an OSPC clinic, patients with travel times of < 30 minutes (OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 2.2 to 4.6) and 31 to 60 minutes (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.6 to 3.6) were also more likely to use OSPC. CONCLUSION Among patients with advanced solid tumors, colocation of oncology and OSPC clinics and shorter patient travel time were associated with greater odds of using OSPC. Future efforts to increase OSPC use in this population should consider clinic colocation and travel burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin A. Yu
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Kristin N. Ray
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Seo Young Park
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | | | | | - Peter G. Ellis
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Yael Schenker
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
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22
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Li Z, Jiang S, He R, Dong Y, Pan Z, Xu C, Lu F, Zhang P, Zhang L. Trajectories of Hospitalization Cost Among Patients of End-Stage Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Study in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15122877. [PMID: 30558272 PMCID: PMC6313636 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15122877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 11/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the trajectory of hospitalization costs, and to assess the determinants related to the membership of the identified trajectories, with the view of recommending future research directions. A retrospective study was performed in urban Yichang, China, where a total of 134 end-stage lung cancer patients were selected. The latent class analysis (LCA) model was used to investigate the heterogeneity in the trajectory of hospitalization cost amongst the different groups that were identified. A multi-nominal logit model was applied to explore the attributes of different classes. Three classes were defined as follows: Class 1 represented the trajectory with minimal cost, which had increased over the last two months. Classes 2 and 3 consisted of patients that incurred high costs, which had declined with the impending death of the patient. Patients in class 3 had a higher average cost than those in Class 2. The level of education, hospitalization, and place of death, were the attributes of membership to the different classes. LCA was useful in quantifying heterogeneity amongst the patients. The results showed the attributes were embedded in hospitalization cost trajectories. These findings are applicable to early identification and intervention in palliative care. Future studies should focus on the validation of the proposed model in clinical settings, as well as to identify the determinants of early discharge or aggressive care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Li
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Shan Jiang
- School of Health Policy and Management, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China.
| | - Ruibo He
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Yihan Dong
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Zijin Pan
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Chengzhong Xu
- Yichang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yichang 443000, China.
| | - Fangfang Lu
- Yichang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yichang 443000, China.
| | - Pei Zhang
- Yichang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yichang 443000, China.
| | - Liang Zhang
- School of Medicine and Health Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
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23
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Gupta N, Kumar V, Garg R, Bharati SJ, Mishra S, Bhatnagar S. Initial Perceptions about Palliative Care in Patients with Advanced Cancer: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Audit. Indian J Palliat Care 2018; 24:512-516. [PMID: 30410267 PMCID: PMC6199839 DOI: 10.4103/ijpc.ijpc_94_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is enough evidence to suggest that early introduction to palliative care (PC) for patients with advanced cancer is beneficial. However, despite this, the patients often come late to PC physicians. There are a number of studies examining the preferences and practices of the physicians with respect to PC. However, there is limited literature exploring the patients' preferences and awareness regarding the PC services. This audit was done to identify the understanding and perceptions of PC in patients visiting PC outpatient department (OPD) and identify strategies to enhance their understanding. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in 200 advanced cancer patients visiting PC OPD in a tertiary care hospital. The patients were asked to fill a questionnaire to assess their knowledge and expectations form PC on their first visit. RESULTS Majority of the patients were from nearby areas and around 20% of them had to travel more than 300 km to receive palliative consultation. Unfortunately, majority of the patients had not heard the term PC before and were not aware of its meaning. Most of them (90%) were send to control pain which was too severe to be managed by the oncologists. We think that the major reason for the lack of awareness about PC services is limited availability across the country and lack of coordinated approach. CONCLUSIONS The main problem identified in the audit was the inadequate information, lack of PC setups, and late referral of the patients to PC. Hence, we should make a model where PC services are integrated with the curative services and offered throughout the illness after cancer diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishkarsh Gupta
- Department of Onco-Anaesthesiology and Palliative Medicine, Dr. BRAIRCH, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
- Address for correspondence: Dr. Nishkarsh Gupta, Room No 139, Department of Onco-Anaesthesiology and Palliative Medicine, Dr. BRAIRCH, AIIMS, New Delhi, India. E-mail:
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Onco-Anaesthesiology and Palliative Medicine, Dr. BRAIRCH, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Rakesh Garg
- Department of Onco-Anaesthesiology and Palliative Medicine, Dr. BRAIRCH, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Sachidanand Jee Bharati
- Department of Onco-Anaesthesiology and Palliative Medicine, Dr. BRAIRCH, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Seema Mishra
- Department of Onco-Anaesthesiology and Palliative Medicine, Dr. BRAIRCH, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Sushma Bhatnagar
- Department of Onco-Anaesthesiology and Palliative Medicine, Dr. BRAIRCH, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
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24
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Wadhwa D, Popovic G, Pope A, Swami N, Le LW, Zimmermann C. Factors Associated with Early Referral to Palliative Care in Outpatients with Advanced Cancer. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:1322-1328. [DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2017.0593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Wadhwa
- BC Cancer–Center for the Southern Interior, Kelowna, British Colombia, Canada
| | - Gordana Popovic
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashley Pope
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nadia Swami
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa W. Le
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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25
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Hackett J, Bekker H, Bennett MI, Carder P, Gallagher J, Henry C, Kite S, Taylor S, Velikova G, Ziegler L. Developing a complex intervention to support timely engagement with palliative care for patients with advanced cancer in primary and secondary care in the UK: a study protocol. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e022835. [PMID: 29764891 PMCID: PMC5961581 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-022835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION For patients with advanced cancer, timely access to palliative care can improve quality of life and enable patients to participate in decisions about their end-of-life care. However, in a UK population of 2500 patients who died from cancer, one-third did not receive specialist palliative care, and of those who did, the duration of involvement was too short to maximise the benefits. Initiating a conversation about palliative care is challenging for some health professionals and patients often have unmet information needs and misconceptions about palliative care. We will work closely with patients and health professionals to develop a patient decision aid and health professional training module designed to facilitate a timely and informed conversation about palliative care. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study is being conducted over 24 months from November 2017 to October 2019 and follows the UK Medical Research Council framework for developing complex interventions and the International Patient Decision Aids Guideline. The Ottawa Decision Support Framework underpins the study. The Supporting Timely Engagement with Palliative care (STEP) intervention will be developed though an iterative process informed by interviews and focus groups with patients with advanced cancer, oncologists, general practitioners and palliative care doctors. An expert panel will also review each iteration. The expert panel will consist of a patient representative with experience of palliative care, health professionals who are involved in advanced cancer care decision-making, a medical education expert and the National Council for Palliative Care director of transformation. The feasibility and acceptability of the decision aid and doctor training will be tested in oncology and general practice settings. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval for the study has been granted by the Office for Research Ethics Committees Northern Ireland (ORECNI), approval reference 17/NI/0249. Dissemination and knowledge transfer will be conducted via publications, national bodies and networks, and patient and family groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Hackett
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Hilary Bekker
- Psychological and Social Medicine, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Michael I Bennett
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Paul Carder
- NHS Bradford and Districts CCGs, Bradford, UK
| | - Jean Gallagher
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Suzanne Kite
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James’s University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Sally Taylor
- Christie Patient Centred Research, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Galina Velikova
- Christie Patient Centred Research, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Lucy Ziegler
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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26
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Yoo SH, Kim M, Yun YH, Keam B, Kim YA, Kim YJ, Shim HJ, Song EK, Kang JH, Kwon JH, Lee JL, Lee SN, Kim SY, Kang EJ, Do YR, Choi YS, Jung KH. Attitudes toward early palliative care in cancer patients and caregivers: a Korean nationwide survey. Cancer Med 2018; 7:1784-1793. [PMID: 29577624 PMCID: PMC5943547 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.1441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrated early palliative care (EPC) improves quality of life and reduces psychological distress in adult patients with cancer and caregivers, but attitudes toward EPC have been poorly studied. We aimed to investigate attitudes toward EPC in a nationwide survey of patients with cancer and caregivers. From July to October 2016, we administered nationwide questionnaires examining attitudes toward EPC in patients with cancer (n = 1001) and their families (n = 1006) from 12 Korean hospitals. When an individual considered EPC unnecessary, the reasons were collected and analyzed. Factors associated with perception of EPC were examined. A majority of patients (84.5%) and caregivers (89.5%) had positive attitudes toward EPC. The most common reasons for deeming EPC unnecessary were that EPC may be an obstacle to cancer treatment (patients: 37%; caregivers: 23%; respectively) or that they were not sure if EPC is beneficial (patients: 21%; caregivers: 24%; respectively). Financial burden as a reason was more evident in caregivers (23%) than in patients (17%). Male gender, age <50, early stage, intensive care unit admission, and not believing that dying people should prepare to practice charity were associated with patients’ negative attitudes. In caregivers, opposition to EPC was associated with not thinking death should be feared, not thinking people should be remembered, and lower educational level. Our findings showed that significant numbers of patients with advanced cancer and family caregivers showed positive attitudes toward EPC. However, more than 10% of participants did not consider EPC necessary. Physicians’ communication with patients and caregivers and financial support could help overcome the barriers of EPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Hye Yoo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Miso Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Ho Yun
- Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bhumsuk Keam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Ae Kim
- Cancer Survivorship Branch, National Cancer Control Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Yu Jung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Hyun-Jeong Shim
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University School of Medicine, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Eun-Kee Song
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Jung Hun Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Medical School, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Jung Hye Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Lim Lee
- Department of Hemato-oncology, Daegu Fatima Hospital, Daegu, Korea
| | - Soon Nam Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Si-Young Kim
- Departments of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Joo Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Rok Do
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Dongsan Medical Center, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Yoon Seok Choi
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Kyung Hae Jung
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Ulsan University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Rozman LM, Campolina AG, López RVM, Kobayashi ST, Chiba T, de Soárez PC. Early Palliative Care and Its Impact on End-of-Life Care for Cancer Patients in Brazil. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:659-664. [PMID: 29368987 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2017.0418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Integrating palliative care into standard oncology care has been recommended for cancer patients. Early palliative care is associated with less aggressive treatment at the end of life. OBJECTIVE To describe cancer patients receiving palliative care in Brazil, determining the time from entry into palliative care to death, and investigating whether late referral to palliative care is associated with aggressive end-of-life treatment. DESIGN This was a cross-sectional study of cancer patients receiving palliative care in Brazil. SETTING/SUBJECTS Subjects were 2985 cancer patients ≥18 years of age who received at least two palliative care visits at the São Paulo State Cancer Institute, in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, and died between 2010 and 2013. MEASUREMENTS We evaluated the time from the first palliative care consult to death, stratifying cases by the timing of entry into palliative care (≥3 or <3 months before death). The associations between early palliative care and indicators of aggressive treatment were assessed by Pearson's chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS The overall median time between entry into palliative care and death was 34 days (mean, 72 days) and was significantly shorter in 2013 than in 2010 (p < 0.001). The number of emergency department visits was significantly lower among the patients who entered palliative care earlier (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Among cancer patients in Brazil, late referral to palliative care is common. Patients who enter palliative care earlier appear to receive less aggressive end-of-life treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Toshio Chiba
- 2 Cancer Institute of State of São Paulo "Octávio Frias de Oliveira," São Paulo, Brazil
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Duenk RG, Verhagen C, Dekhuijzen P, Vissers K, Engels Y, Heijdra Y. The view of pulmonologists on palliative care for patients with COPD: a survey study. Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis 2017; 12:299-311. [PMID: 28176900 PMCID: PMC5261600 DOI: 10.2147/copd.s121294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Early palliative care is not a common practice for patients with COPD. Important barriers are the identification of patients for palliative care and the organization of such care in this patient group. Objective Pulmonologists have a central role in providing good quality palliative care for patients with COPD. To guide future research and develop services, their view on palliative care for these patients was explored. Methods A survey study was performed by the members of the Netherlands Association of Physicians for Lung Diseases and Tuberculosis. Results The 256 respondents (31.8%) covered 85.9% of the hospital organizations in the Netherlands. Most pulmonologists (92.2%) indicated to distinguish a palliative phase in the COPD trajectory, but there was no consensus about the different criteria used for its identification. Aspects of palliative care in COPD considered important were advance care planning conversation (82%), communication between pulmonologist and general practitioner (77%), and identification of the palliative phase (75.8%), while the latter was considered the most important aspect for improvement (67.6%). Pulmonologists indicated to prefer organizing palliative care for hospitalized patients with COPD themselves (55.5%), while 30.9% indicated to prefer cooperation with a specialized palliative care team (SPCT). In the ambulatory setting, a multidisciplinary cooperation between pulmonologist, general practitioner, and a respiratory nurse specialist was preferred (71.1%). Conclusion To encourage pulmonologists to timely initiate palliative care in COPD, we recommend to conduct further research into more specific identification criteria. Furthermore, pulmonologists should improve their skills of palliative care, and the members of the SPCT should be better informed about the management of COPD to improve care during hospitalization. Communication between pulmonologist and general practitioner should be emphasized in training to improve palliative care in the ambulatory setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- R G Duenk
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine
| | - C Verhagen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine
| | - Pnr Dekhuijzen
- Department of Lung Diseases, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Kcp Vissers
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine
| | - Y Engels
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Palliative Medicine
| | - Y Heijdra
- Department of Lung Diseases, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Ullgren H, Kirkpatrick L, Kilpeläinen S, Sharp L. Working in silos? - Head & Neck cancer patients during and after treatment with or without early palliative care referral. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2016; 26:56-62. [PMID: 28069153 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary aim was to describe patients with Head and Neck (H&N) cancer referred to palliative care and how the care transition from acute oncological to palliative care impacted on both Health related quality of life (HRQoL) and information. The secondary aim was to explore H&N cancer patients' HRQoL and perceived information. METHODS H&N cancer patients were identified via the Swedish Cancer Register. Data were collected using the following questionnaires; European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ C-30, INFO25, and a study-specific questionnaire. KEY RESULTS Out of 289 patients, 203 (70%) responded and among these, 43 (21%) reported being referred to palliative care. Global health was the lowest reported functional scale (median score = 67) and fatigue (median scores 33) the highest reported symptom (QLQ C-30). Patients with a written care plan were significantly more satisfied with information regarding self-care compared to patients without a care plan. Patients referred to palliative care were less satisfied with information regarding disease (p < 0.000), the spread of the disease (p < 0.001) and were more likely to visit hospital emergency departments (43% vs. 19% p < 0.000). CONCLUSION To avoid H&N cancer care in silos, a closer integration between the oncology and the palliative care team is needed. Further research on the complex situation of having oncological treatment concurrent with palliative care, is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Ullgren
- Regional Cancer Centre Stockholm-Gotland, Stockholm, Sweden; Karolinska University Hospital, Department of Oncology, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | | | - Lena Sharp
- Regional Cancer Centre Stockholm-Gotland, Stockholm, Sweden; Karolinska Institutet, Department of Learning Informatics, Management and Ethics, Stockholm, Sweden
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Rabow MW, Dahlin C, Calton B, Bischoff K, Ritchie C. New Frontiers in Outpatient Palliative Care for Patients With Cancer. Cancer Control 2016; 22:465-74. [PMID: 26678973 DOI: 10.1177/107327481502200412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although much evidence has accumulated demonstrating its benefit, relatively little is known about outpatient palliative care in patients with cancer. METHODS This paper reviews the literature and perspectives from content experts to describe the current state of outpatient palliative care in the oncology setting and current areas of innovation and promise in the field. RESULTS Evidence, including from controlled trials, documents the benefits of outpatient palliative care in the oncology setting. As a result, professional medical organizations have guidelines and recommendations based on the key role of palliative care in oncology. Six elements of the practice sit at the frontier of outpatient oncology palliative care, including the setting and timing of palliative care integration into outpatient oncology, the relationships between primary and specialty palliative care, quality and measurement, research, electronic and technical innovations, and finances. CONCLUSIONS Evidence of clinical and health care system benefits supports the recommendations of professional organizations to integrate palliative care into the routine treatment of patients with advanced cancer.
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Hannon B, Swami N, Pope A, Leighl N, Rodin G, Krzyzanowska M, Zimmermann C. Early Palliative Care and Its Role in Oncology: A Qualitative Study. Oncologist 2016; 21:1387-1395. [PMID: 27449522 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2016-0176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early integration of palliative care alongside oncology is being increasingly recommended, although the strategies and models for integration remain poorly defined. We solicited the opinions of patients and caregivers who participated in a randomized trial of early palliative care versus standard oncology care, regarding the respective roles of their oncologist (both groups) and palliative care physician (early palliative care group). MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was performed at a comprehensive cancer center. Forty-eight patients (26 intervention, 22 control) and 23 caregivers (14 intervention, 9 control) were recruited purposefully at trial end. One-on-one, semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted and analyzed using grounded theory. RESULTS The themes resulting from the analysis fell into three categories: the focus of care, the model of care delivery, and the complementarity between teams. The focus of care in oncology was perceived to be disease-centered, with emphasis on controlling disease, directing cancer treatment, and increasing survival; palliative care was perceived to be more holistic and person-focused, with an emphasis on symptom management. Oncology visits were seen as following a structured, physician-led, time-constrained model in contrast to the more fluid, patient-led, flexible model experienced in the palliative care clinic. No differences were found in the descriptions of oncology between participants in the intervention and control groups. Participants in the intervention group explicitly described the roles of their oncologist and their palliative care physician as distinct and complementary. CONCLUSION Participants perceived the respective roles of their oncologist and palliative care physician as discrete, important, and complementary for the provision of excellent cancer care. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Patients and their caregivers who experienced early palliative care described the roles of their oncologists and palliative care physicians as being discrete and complementary, with both specialties contributing to excellent patient care. The findings of the present research support an integrated approach to care for patients with advanced cancer, which involves early collaborative care in the ambulatory setting by experts in both oncology and palliative medicine. This can be achieved by more widespread establishment of ambulatory palliative care clinics, encouragement of timely outpatient referral to palliative care, and education of oncologists in palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breffni Hannon
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nadia Swami
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashley Pope
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Natasha Leighl
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gary Rodin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Monika Krzyzanowska
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Nieder C, Tollåli T, Haukland E, Reigstad A, Flatøy LR, Engljähringer K. Impact of early palliative interventions on the outcomes of care for patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:4385-91. [PMID: 27209479 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3278-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to address the question "does early palliative care in addition to standard oncology care or late additional palliative care improve patterns of terminal care in patients who died from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)?" METHODS We performed retrospective single-institution study of 286 patients. Palliative care was provided by a dedicated multidisciplinary palliative care team (PCT). An arbitrarily defined cutoff of 3 months before death was chosen to distinguish between early and late additional palliative care. Referral was at the discretion of the treating physicians who provided standard anticancer treatments. RESULTS Patients who received early (8 %) or late (27 %) additional palliative care were significantly younger than those who did not receive additional palliative care. The likelihood of active anticancer treatment in the last month of life was lowest in the early additional palliative care group, p = 0.03. Patients who received early or late additional palliative care were significantly less likely to lack a documented resuscitation preference, p = 0.0001. Patients who received early additional palliative care were significantly less likely to become hospitalized in the last 3 months of life, p = 0.003. Place of death was also numerically different, with hospital death occurring in 33 % of patients who received early additional palliative care, as compared to 48 % in the late and 50 % in the no PCT group, p = 0.35. Anticancer treatment intensity was not reduced if the PCT contributed to the overall management. CONCLUSION Early additional palliative care resulted in relevant improvements. The optimal timing of this intervention should be examined prospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Nieder
- Departments of Oncology and Palliative Medicine, Nordland Hospital Trust, P.O. Box 1480, 8092, Bodø, Norway.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Terje Tollåli
- Departments of Pulmonology, Nordland Hospital Trust, Bodø, Norway
| | - Ellinor Haukland
- Departments of Oncology and Palliative Medicine, Nordland Hospital Trust, P.O. Box 1480, 8092, Bodø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Anne Reigstad
- Departments of Pulmonology, Nordland Hospital Trust, Bodø, Norway
| | - Liv Randi Flatøy
- Departments of Pulmonology, Nordland Hospital Trust, Bodø, Norway
| | - Kirsten Engljähringer
- Departments of Oncology and Palliative Medicine, Nordland Hospital Trust, P.O. Box 1480, 8092, Bodø, Norway
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Horlait M, Chambaere K, Pardon K, Deliens L, Van Belle S. What are the barriers faced by medical oncologists in initiating discussion of palliative care? A qualitative study in Flanders, Belgium. Support Care Cancer 2016; 24:3873-81. [PMID: 27086311 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3211-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Before referring patients to a palliative care service, oncologists need to inform them about disease stage and discuss prognosis, treatment options and possible advantages of specialized palliative care (SPC). They often find this a complex and emotionally difficult task. As a result, they may refer their patients to SPC too late in the disease course or even not at all. This study reports findings from interviews with Belgian medical oncologists identifying the barriers they experience to introduce palliative care to their patients with advanced cancer. METHODS The interviews were semi-structured with open-ended questions and were supported by a topic list. The transcripts were analysed during an iterative process using the grounded theory principles of open and axial coding until a final coding framework was reached. RESULTS The study identified seven heterogeneous categories of barriers which discourage oncologists from discussing palliative care: oncologist-related barriers, patient-related barriers, family-related barriers, barriers relating to the physician referring the patient to the medical oncologist, barriers relating to disease or treatment, institutional/organizational barriers and societal/policy barriers. These categories are further refined into subcategories. DISCUSSION These findings provide an explanation for the possible reasons why medical oncologists feel hampered in initiating palliative care and consequently discuss it rather late in the disease trajectory. The exploration and description of these barriers may serve as a starting point for revising the medical education of oncologists. They are also a reminder to hospital management and policy makers to be aware of the impact of these barriers on the daily practice of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Horlait
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - K Chambaere
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Pardon
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - L Deliens
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Van Belle
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, Ghent, 9000, Belgium
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Meffert C, Rücker G, Hatami I, Becker G. Identification of hospital patients in need of palliative care--a predictive score. BMC Palliat Care 2016; 15:21. [PMID: 26906043 PMCID: PMC4763405 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-016-0094-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Palliative care was initially developed for patients with advanced cancer. Over the past years, however, palliative care has broadened its focus from terminal cancer patients to patients with other serious, life-limiting illnesses. Nevertheless, the identification of palliative care needs (PCNs) among hospital patients remains an insufficiently investigated topic of research. The aim of our study was to describe the characteristics of hospital patients with palliative care needs and to develop a score for their identification. METHODS We conducted an epidemiological study. Data were collected prospectively from inpatients at the University Medical Center Freiburg, Germany. For each patient discharged from a hospital ward, the treating physician had to report whether the patient had PCNs or not. The response rate was 96%, and data from 39,849 patients could be analyzed. A binary logistic regression analysis was performed in order to identify risk factors for developing PCNs and to develop a predictive score for the identification of patients with PCNs upon their admission to the hospital. In order to validate the risk prediction model, we used a bootstrap analysis. RESULTS During the study period, 6.9% (2757) of all patients had palliative care needs. Only 56 of them (2%) received palliative treatment. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that older patients without relatives who suffered from metastatic cancer and/or liver cirrhosis had the highest risk of developing palliative care needs (PCN-score; sensitivity: 0.815; specificity: 0.640). CONCLUSIONS Given the aging population and associated increase in the number of patients requiring palliative care, it is crucial to detect palliative care needs in hospital patients with both cancerous and non-cancerous life-limiting diseases. Our predictive score contributes to the identification of palliative care needs in patients with life-limiting diseases, which allows physicians to take the appropriate therapeutic steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Meffert
- Clinic for Palliative Care, Medical Center, University of Freiburg Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Robert-Koch-Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gerta Rücker
- Institute for Medical Biometry and Statistics, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Str. 26, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Isaak Hatami
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Therapy, St. Vincent Hospital Landau, Cornichonstr. 4, 76829 Landau, Germany
| | - Gerhild Becker
- Clinic for Palliative Care, Medical Center, University of Freiburg Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Robert-Koch-Str. 3, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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Wong A, Reddy A, Williams JL, Wu J, Liu D, Bruera E, Wong A, Reddy A, Williams JL, Wu J, Liu D, Bruera E. ReCAP: Attitudes, Beliefs, and Awareness of Graduate Medical Education Trainees Regarding Palliative Care at a Comprehensive Cancer Center. J Oncol Pract 2016; 12:149-50; e127-37. [PMID: 26787756 PMCID: PMC5702790 DOI: 10.1200/jop.2015.006619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Palliative care (PC) training and integration with oncology care remain suboptimal. Current attitudes and beliefs of the oncology trainees regarding PC are not fully known. This study was undertaken in an attempt to address this issue. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS We conducted a survey to determine awareness of PC among graduate medical trainees at a comprehensive cancer center with an established PC program. One hundred seventy oncology trainees who completed$9 months of training in medical, surgical, gynecologic, and radiation oncology fellowships and residency programs during the 2013 academic year completed an online questionnaire. Descriptive, univariable, and multivariable analyses were performed. RESULTS The response rate was 78% (132 of 170 trainees); 10 trainees without hands-on patient care were excluded. Medical (53 of 60 [88%]), gynecologic (six of six [100%]), and radiation oncology (20 of 20 [100%]) trainees reported more awareness of PC compared with surgical oncology (22 of 36 [61%]) trainees (P = .001). One hundred twelve of 122 (92%) perceived PC as beneficial to patients and families. One hundred eight of 122 (89%) perceived that PC can reduce health care costs, 78 (64%) believed that PC can increase survival, and 90 (74%) would consult PC for a patient with newly diagnosed cancer with symptoms. Eighty-two trainees (67%) believed a mandatory PC rotation is important. Trainees with previous exposure to PC rotations were more aware of the role of PC services than were trainees without PC rotation (96% [46 of 48] v 74% [55 of 74]; P = .005, respectively). CONCLUSION Surgical trainees and trainees without previous PC rotation had significantly less awareness of PC. Overall, trainees perceived PC as beneficial to patients and capable of reducing costs while increasing survival; they also supported early PC referrals and endorsed a mandatory PC rotation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Akhila Reddy
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | | | - Jimin Wu
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | - Diane Liu
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
| | | | - Angelique Wong
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Akhila Reddy
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | | | - Jimin Wu
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Diane Liu
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.
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Walbert T, Glantz M, Schultz L, Puduvalli VK. Impact of provider level, training and gender on the utilization of palliative care and hospice in neuro-oncology: a North-American survey. J Neurooncol 2016; 126:337-45. [PMID: 26518539 PMCID: PMC5557051 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-015-1973-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/25/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Specialized palliative care (PC) services have emerged to address symptoms and provide end-of-life management for patients with brain tumors. The utilization patterns of PC in neuro-oncology are unknown. A 22-question survey was distributed to participants of the society for neuro-oncology annual meeting 2012 (n = 4487). Nonparametric methods including Wilcoxon two-sample and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to assess differences in responses. 239 (5.3 %) evaluable responses were received; 79 % of respondents were physicians, and 17 % were nurses or midlevel providers. Forty-seven percent were medical or neuro-oncologists, 31 % neurosurgeons and 11 % radiation oncologists. Forty percent had no formal training in PC, 57 % had some formal training and 3 % completed a PC fellowship. Seventy-nine percent practiced in an academic setting. Of the respondents, 57 % referred patients to PC when symptoms required treatment and 18 % at end of life. Only 51 % of all providers felt comfortable dealing with end-of-life issues and symptoms, while 33 % did not. Fifty-one percent preferred a service named "Supportive Care" rather than "Palliative Care" (MDs > midlevel providers, p < 0.001), and 32 % felt that patient expectations for ongoing therapy hindered their ability to make PC referrals. Female gender, formal training in neuro-oncology and PC, and medical versus surgical neuro-oncology training were significantly associated with hospice referral, comfort in dealing with end-of-life issues, and ease of access to PC services. Provider level, specialty, gender, training in PC and neuro-oncology have significant impact on the utilization of PC and hospice in neuro-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Walbert
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Health System, 2799 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health System, 2799 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA.
| | - Michael Glantz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State Hershey, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Lonni Schultz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Health System, 2799 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Vinay K Puduvalli
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
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