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Vipler E, Nowels MA, Youngwerth J. Differences in Inpatient Management of Cancer-Related Pain Among Patients with Opioid Use Disorder. J Palliat Med 2024; 27:1200-1203. [PMID: 38727545 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2023.0702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The management of cancer-related pain in patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) remains complex and often challenging for clinicians and patients. There is currently a paucity of data to guide best practices, and the evidence that exists is variably applied. In this hospital-based questionnaire, we sought to understand the variation in practice patterns among clinicians in palliative medicine, addiction medicine, and hospital medicine, in caring for this complex patient population. Sixty-two questionnaire responses were analyzed and variation was found in management of pain, as well as initiation or titration of buprenorphine and methadone. There was also a significant difference in postdischarge subspecialty follow-up. Furthermore, the findings suggest that buprenorphine and methadone may be underutilized in this population. Patients and clinicians may benefit from additional support and standardization of practices to best manage coexisting cancer-related pain and OUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Vipler
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Molly A Nowels
- Department of Health Behavior, Society, and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jean Youngwerth
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Aljassem A, Spickler M, Kapur N. A path to recovery for overlooked populations and their unique challenges: integrating rehabilitation in palliative care for patients with substance use disorders. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 5:1373857. [PMID: 38756191 PMCID: PMC11096464 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2024.1373857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Palliative care is a growing medical specialty focusing on providing compassionate and holistic management for those facing life-threatening diseases. These patients frequently present with physical, functional, emotional, and psychosocial problems that require comprehensive interdisciplinary management. However, there is a substantial opportunity to improve care for patients in palliative care who also have a substance use disorder (SUD). These opportunities include direct provision of SUD treatments by specialist palliative care providers and the integration of physical medicine and rehabilitation services. The purpose of this article is to examine the misunderstood and underutilized interaction between palliative care and SUDs, as well as describing the unique opportunities provided by physical medicine and rehabilitation providers to achieve a patient's palliative care goals and optimize overall quality of life. Substance Use Disorder is a chronic, often relapsing, illness that is relevant to palliative care practice due to the potential for significant morbidity and mortality through organ failure, chronic infections, and overdose syndromes. In traditional palliative care practice, it has been observed that past or current SUD diagnoses are often left untreated, resulting in increased distress, and exacerbating an already complex medical situation. Furthermore, many of these patients also experience physical, functional, or psychosocial changes that, when left untreated, will worsen distress and quality of life. To provide more comprehensive and successful palliative care for patients with SUD, the authors recommend an increased emphasis on specialist palliative care training in SUD management, proactive integration of rehabilitation services into the palliative care team, and consistent advocacy for these steps in various arenas. Combined, these actions can improve the care team's ability to provide a holistic, patient-centered approach that can have substantial positive outcomes for patients, health systems, and society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annas Aljassem
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oak, MI, United States
| | - Michael Spickler
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Corwell Health William Beaumont University Hospital, Royal Oak, MI, United States
| | - Nandita Kapur
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Royal Oak, MI, United States
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Lau J, Scott MM, Everett K, Gomes T, Tanuseputro P, Jennings S, Bagnarol R, Zimmermann C, Isenberg SR. Association between opioid use disorder and palliative care: a cohort study using linked health administrative data in Ontario, Canada. CMAJ 2024; 196:E547-E557. [PMID: 38684285 PMCID: PMC11057880 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.231419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with opioid use disorder (OUD) are at risk of premature death and can benefit from palliative care. We sought to compare palliative care provision for decedents with and without OUD. METHODS We conducted a cohort study using health administrative databases in Ontario, Canada, to identify people who died between July 1, 2015, and Dec. 31, 2021. The exposure was OUD, defined as having emergency department visits, hospital admissions, or pharmacologic treatments suggestive of OUD within 3 years of death. Our primary outcome was receipt of 1 or more palliative care services during the last 90 days before death. Secondary outcomes included setting, initiation, and intensity of palliative care. We conducted a secondary analysis excluding sudden deaths (e.g., opioid toxicity, injury). RESULTS Of 679 840 decedents, 11 200 (1.6%) had OUD. Compared with people without OUD, those with OUD died at a younger age and were more likely to live in neighbourhoods with high marginalization indices. We found people with OUD were less likely to receive palliative care at the end of their lives (adjusted relative risk [RR] 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.82-0.86), but this difference did not exist after excluding people who died suddenly (adjusted RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.96-1.01). People with OUD were less likely to receive palliative care in clinics and their homes regardless of cause of death. INTERPRETATION Opioid use disorder can be a chronic, life-limiting illness, and people with OUD are less likely to receive palliative care in communities during the 90 days before death. Health care providers should receive training in palliative care and addiction medicine to support people with OUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Lau
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont.
| | - Mary M Scott
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Karl Everett
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Tara Gomes
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Peter Tanuseputro
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Sheila Jennings
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Rebecca Bagnarol
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Camilla Zimmermann
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Sarina R Isenberg
- Division of Palliative Care (Lau, Bagnarol, Zimmermann), Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network; Division of Palliative Care (Lau), Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Scott, Tanuseputro), Ottawa, Ont.; ICES Central (Everett, Gomes); Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (Gomes), Unity Health; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy (Gomes), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Bruyère Research Institute (Tanuseputro, Isenberg), Ottawa, Ont.; Moms Stop The Harm (Jennings); Division of Palliative Medicine (Zimmermann), Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.; Division of Palliative Care (Isenberg), Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
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Webb L, Yarwood G, Witham G, Wright S, Galvani S. Providing holistic end-of-life care for people with a history of problem substance use: a mixed methods cohort study of interdisciplinary service provision and integrated care. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:86. [PMID: 38556868 PMCID: PMC10983728 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01416-4] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Harmful use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol is linked to life-limiting illness and complex health and social care needs, but people who use substances and have complex needs do not receive timely palliative care and fail to achieve quality standards for a good death. They and their families often require support from multiple health and social care services which are shown to be poorly integrated and fail to deliver interdisciplinary care. This study aimed to identify the existing barriers and facilitators within and between services in providing this population with a good death. Using a mixed methods approach of survey, focus groups and semi-structured interviews, we explored the perspectives of practitioner and management staff across a range of health and social disciplines and organisations in one combined authority in a large city in the north west of England. Our findings indicate that practitioners want to provide better care for this client group, but face structural, organisational and professional boundary barriers to delivering integrated and shared care. Differences in philosophy of care, piecemeal commissioning and funding of services, and regulatory frameworks for different services, lead to poor and inequitable access to health and social care services. Ways forward for improving care are suggested as bespoke hostel-based accommodation for palliative care for this client group, and specialist link workers who can transcend professional and organisational boundaries to support co-ordination of services and support. We conclude that it is no longer adequate to call for more training, better communication and improved joint working. Complex care at the end of life requires creative and cohesive systemic responses that enable multi-disciplinary practitioners to provide the care they wish to give and enables individuals using substances to get the respect and quality service they deserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Webb
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK.
| | - Gemma Yarwood
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Gary Witham
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
| | - Sam Wright
- Change Grow Live, 76 King Street, Orega, Manchester, UK
| | - Sarah Galvani
- Manchester Metropolitan University, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK
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Preti C, Poulos CJ, Poulos RG, Reynolds NL, Rowlands AC, Flakelar K, Raguz A, Valpiani P, Faux SG, O'Connor CM. Specialised residential care for older people subject to homelessness: experiences of residents and staff of a new aged care home in Australia. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:249. [PMID: 38475717 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04791-y] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of older people experiencing homelessness in Australia is rising, yet there is a lack of specialised residential care for older people subject to homelessness with high care and palliative needs. To address this significant gap, a purpose-built care home was recently opened in Sydney, Australia. METHODS This qualitative study explores the experiences of both residents and staff who were living and working in the home over the first twelve months since its opening. Residents were interviewed at baseline (n = 32) and after six months (n = 22), while staff (n = 13) were interviewed after twelve months. Interviews were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach informed by grounded theory. RESULTS Three main themes emerged: (1) Challenges in providing care for older people subject to homelessness with high care needs; (2) Defining a residential care service that supports older people subject to homelessness with high care needs, and (3) Perception of the impact of living and working in a purpose-built care home after six months (residents) and twelve months (staff) since its opening. A key finding was that of the complex interplay between resident dependency and behaviours, referral pathways and stakeholder engagement, government funding models and requirements, staff training and wellbeing, and the need to meet operational viability. CONCLUSION This study provides novel insights into how the lives of older people subject to homelessness with high care needs are affected by living in a specifically designed care home, and on some of the challenges faced and solved by staff working in the care home. A significant gap in the healthcare system remains when it comes to the effective provision of high care for older people subject to homelessness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costanza Preti
- Centre for Positive Ageing, HammondCare, Sydney, Australia
- UCL Institute of Education (Culture, Communication and Media), London, England
| | - Christopher J Poulos
- Centre for Positive Ageing, HammondCare, Sydney, Australia
- School of Population Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Roslyn G Poulos
- Centre for Positive Ageing, HammondCare, Sydney, Australia
- School of Population Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Angela Raguz
- Centre for Positive Ageing, HammondCare, Sydney, Australia
| | - Peter Valpiani
- Haymarket Foundation, Sydney, Australia
- The End Street Sleeping Collaboration, Sydney, Australia
| | - Steven G Faux
- Departments of Rehabilitation Medicine and Pain Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Claire Mc O'Connor
- Centre for Positive Ageing, HammondCare, Sydney, Australia.
- School of Population Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia.
- School of Psychology, UNSW, Sydney, Australia.
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia.
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6
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Rudy L, Lacroix E. Substance use disorders in hospice palliative care: A narrative review of challenges and a case for physician intervention. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38420710 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523001402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Substance use disorders (SUDs) are frequently encountered in hospice palliative care (HPC) and pose substantial quality-of-life issues for patients. However, most HPC physicians do not directly treat their patients' SUDs due to several institutional and personal barriers. This review will expand upon arguments for the integration of SUD treatment into HPC, will elucidate challenges for HPC providers, and will provide recommendations that address these challenges. METHODS A thorough review of the literature was conducted. Arguments for the treatment of SUDs and recommendations for physicians have been synthesized and expanded upon. RESULTS Treating SUD in HPC has the potential to improve adherence to care, access to social support, and outcomes for pain, mental health, and physical health. Barriers to SUD treatment in HPC include difficulties with accurate assessment, insufficient training, attitudes and stigma, and compromised pain management regimens. Recommendations for physicians and training environments to address these challenges include developing familiarity with standardized SUD assessment tools and pain management practice guidelines, creating and disseminating visual campaigns to combat stigma, including SUD assessment and intervention as fellowship competencies, and obtaining additional training in psychosocial interventions. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS By following these recommendations, HPC physicians can improve their competence and confidence in working with individuals with SUDs, which will help meet the pressing needs of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Rudy
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | - Emilie Lacroix
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
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Langmann GA, Childers J, Merlin JS. Caring for Patients With Opioid Misuse or Substance Use Disorders in Hospice: A National Survey. J Palliat Med 2024; 27:209-215. [PMID: 37824806 PMCID: PMC11074426 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2023.0082] [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] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Opioid misuse and substance use disorders (SUDs) including opioid use disorder (OUD) are common and negatively impact quality of life. Hospice clinicians' experiences with these conditions have not been well described. Objectives: We sought to explore hospice clinicians' knowledge, practices, and comfort caring for patients with opioid misuse (e.g., a pattern of unsanctioned opioid use escalation, or concurrent illicit substance use) and SUDs. Design: We recruited hospice clinicians in the United States via national hospice and palliative care organizations to complete an online survey designed by the study authors and pilot tested with an interdisciplinary group of current/former hospice clinicians. Results: One hundred seventy-five clinicians (40% nurses, 40% physicians, 16% nurse practitioners) responded to the survey; most had cared for two or more hospice patients with opioid misuse or SUD in the past month. The majority felt confident identifying opioid misuse (94%) and taking SUD histories (79%). Most (62%) felt it is their role to treat hospice patients for SUD, though 56% lacked comfort in using buprenorphine for OUD treatment. While the majority felt it is their role to treat pain in hospice patients with SUDs (94%) and that hospice can help patients with SUDs (94%), many were not comfortable managing pain in patients taking buprenorphine (45%) or naltrexone (49%) for SUDs. Most felt comfortable managing pain in patients taking methadone for SUD (73%). Conclusions: Opioid misuse and SUD are common in hospice. Though clinicians are comfortable taking relevant histories, they feel less comfortable managing patients' opioid misuse or SUD, or these patients' pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle A. Langmann
- Supportive and Palliative Care Program, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Julie Childers
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jessica S. Merlin
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center for Research on Health Care, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Marti L, Hünerwadel E, Hut B, Christ SM, Däster F, Schettle M, Seiler A, Blum D, Hertler C. Characteristics and clinical challenges in patients with substance use disorder in palliative care-experience from a tertiary center in a high-income country. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:28. [PMID: 38287302 PMCID: PMC10826251 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01366-x] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to palliative care is often limited for challenging and vulnerable groups, including persons with substance use disorders. However, with optimized healthcare options and liberal substitution policies, this patient group is likely to increase over the upcoming years, and comorbidities will also influence the need for palliative support. Here, we aim at analyzing characteristics and specific challenges associated with substance use disorders (SUD) in palliative care. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed all patients diagnosed with substance use disorder that were treated at our Competence Center Palliative Care within the University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland between 2015 and 2021. Patient characteristics, including age, gender, duration of hospitalization, as well as specific metrics like body mass index, distinct palliative care assessment scores, and in-hospital opioid consumption were retrieved from the electronic patient files. Demographics and clinical data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, and compared to those of a control group of palliative care patients without SUD. An opioid calculator was used to standardize opioid intake based on morphine equivalents for meaningful comparisons. RESULTS The primary characteristics revealed that the majority of individuals were single (56%), had no children (83%), lived alone (39%), and were either unemployed or recipients of a disability pension (in total 50%). Nicotine (89%), opioids (67%), and alcohol (67%) were the most used substances. We identified various comorbidities including psychiatric illnesses alongside SUD (56%), hepatitis A, B, or C (33%), and HIV infection (17%). Patients with SUD were significantly younger (p < 0.5), predominantly male (p < 0.05), and reported a higher prevalence of pain (p < 0.5) compared to the standard cohort of palliative patients. Regarding the challenges most frequently reported by healthcare practitioners, non-compliance, multimorbidity, challenging communication, biographical trauma, lack of social support, and unstable housing situations played a key role. CONCLUSION Patients with SUD represent a complex and vulnerable group dealing with multiple comorbidities that profoundly affect both their physical and psychological well-being. Understanding their unique characteristics is pivotal in providing precise and suitable palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bigna Hut
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian M Christ
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fabienne Däster
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
| | - Markus Schettle
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
| | - Annina Seiler
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
| | - David Blum
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Hertler
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland.
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Moryl N, Mendoza TR, Horn SD, Eustaquio JC, Cleeland CS, Inturrisi C. Should We Use COMM (Current Opioid Misuse Measure) to Screen for Opioid Abuse in Patients With Cancer Pain? J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2023; 21:1132-1140.e3. [PMID: 37935105 PMCID: PMC11110681 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2023.7054] [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: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing concerns about opioid use disorder (OUD) and the resulting decrease in opioid availability for patients with cancer pain highlight the need for reliable screening tools to identify the subset of patients at increased risk for aberrant opioid use. Our study examines the utility of Current Opioid Misuse Measure (COMM) recommended by the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology for Adult Cancer Pain. PATIENTS AND METHODS We analyzed prospectively collected patient-reported outcomes of 444 consecutive patients with cancer seen in pain clinics of a cancer center at 2 time points within 100 days. The relationship of COMM to other OUD screening tools, pain, opioid doses, patient demographics, and mortality was examined using univariate and multivariable logistic regression. We also examined individual items of COMM for face validity. RESULTS Among 444 patients who completed pain surveys at 2 time points, 157 (35.4%) did not complete COMM surveys. Using a COMM cutoff of ≥13, a total of 84 patients (29.3%; 84/287) scored positive for aberrant drug use. As patients remained on opioids for 49 to 100 days, the likelihood of improving COMM score (turning from positive to negative) was 6.1 times greater than the reverse. The number of patients with COMM ≥13 was 3.8 times higher than the number of patients with CPT diagnostic codes for OUD, 5.3 times higher than those with a positive urine drug screening, and 21 times higher than those with a positive CAGE (Cut Down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-Opener Questionnaire) score. COMM ≥13 was not associated with pain relief response (worst pain intensity score ≥2 points on the Brief Pain Inventory), opioid doses, gender, or age. Contrary to the intended use of COMM to identify aberrant opioid use, COMM ≥13 predicted mortality: patients with COMM ≥13 were 1.9 times more likely to die within 12 months. CONCLUSIONS Our study found that using COMM in a cancer population may significantly overestimate the risk of opioid misuse. Using COMM without modifications can create an additional barrier to cancer pain management, such as limiting appropriate opioid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Moryl
- Supportive Care Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Tito R Mendoza
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Susan D Horn
- Health System Innovation and Research Division, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Jelyn C Eustaquio
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
- Supportive Care Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Charles S Cleeland
- Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Charles Inturrisi
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
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Moureau L, Verhofstadt M, Liégeois A. Mapping the ethical aspects in end-of-life care for persons with a severe and persistent mental illness: A scoping review of the literature. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1094038. [PMID: 37009126 PMCID: PMC10062453 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1094038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Persons with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI) make up a vulnerable group within mental healthcare and society. Not only do they suffer from long-term, serious psychiatric disorders; they often also experience considerable problems in their psychosocial functioning. Research has disclosed that the care needs of this target group are complex, and that the life expectancy of these persons is significantly lower than in the general population. Given (1) the lower life expectancy of persons with SPMI, (2) the higher suicide risk related to mental disorders, and (3) the legalization and practice of medical assistance in dying in an increasing number of countries, it is of utmost importance to map the ethical aspects and challenges of end-of-life care needs in persons with SPMI. Therefore, we charted the way end-of-life care is provided for them by means of a scoping review of the scientific literature, with an emphasis on the ethical aspects surrounding it. We explore existing ethical dilemmas; the underlying ethical values, principles and attitudes; and the locus and stakeholders of ethical dialog regarding end-of-life care in persons with SPMI. The results indicate that the four guiding principles of biomedical ethics can well be identified in the literature, and are each addressed in their own specific way: Autonomy in relation to questions regarding the decision-making capacity of persons with SPMI; Justice in relation to access to quality care and the presence of stigma; and Non-maleficence and Beneficence in relation to the ongoing debate regarding the benefits and obstacles in applying palliative care approaches in the context of psychiatry, and the status of the futility-concept therein. Personal virtues and attitudes in care professionals, like compassion, non-abandonment and upholding dignity are key, as care professionals are the main advocates of persons with SPMI, which often lack an extensive social network. Further, we find that the ethical dialog is mainly focused on care professionals and relatives, rather than the persons with SPMI themselves. This is reflected in the existing research that often had the voices of the latter missing. Future research may benefit from the inclusion of persons with SMPI’s first-hand accounts. End-of-life care for persons with SPMI may benefit from identifying and integrating (locally developed) good practices like cross-sectoral education, specific care models, and ethics support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loïc Moureau
- Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Loïc Moureau,
| | - Monica Verhofstadt
- Medical and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium
| | - Axel Liégeois
- Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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11
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Toward holistic care: Including substance use in mental health-palliative care integration. Palliat Support Care 2022; 20:453-454. [PMID: 35582974 PMCID: PMC10185337 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522000591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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12
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McNally GA, McLaughlin EM, Rosselet R, Baiocchi R. Interprofessional Oncology Providers' Experiences and Knowledge of Opioid Use Disorders in Patients With Cancer. Oncol Nurs Forum 2022; 49:213-221. [PMID: 35446835 DOI: 10.1188/22.onf.213-221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine oncology providers' experiences and knowledge of opioid use disorders (OUDs) in patients with cancer. SAMPLE & SETTING The final sample of 773 participants included 42 physicians, 213 advanced practice providers (APPs), and 518 nurses at a large comprehensive cancer center. METHODS & VARIABLES This study used a cross-sectional descriptive survey to describe providers' experiences and knowledge of OUDs. RESULTS Nurses and APPs reported personal experiences with addiction and encountering issues with OUDs in patients more often compared to physicians. Knowledge deficits were identified regarding addiction, including evidence-based treatment for OUDs. Overall, OUDs are a topic of concern that the majority of oncology providers are interested in learning more about. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING The opioid epidemic presents an opportunity to improve the knowledge of interprofessional oncology providers addressing OUDs. Nurses and APPs are ideally positioned for the prevention and early recognition of patients with an OUD and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen A McNally
- Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute
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13
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Cook O, Doran J, Crosbie K, Sweeney P, Millard I, O'Connor M. Palliative care needs and models of care for people who use drugs and/or alcohol: A mixed methods systematic review. Palliat Med 2022; 36:292-304. [PMID: 35184626 DOI: 10.1177/02692163211061994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing palliative care for individuals who use alcohol and/or drugs poses a multi-faceted challenge. In addition to clinical and social needs, individuals may endure mental health problems, co-morbidities and homelessness, thus requiring a multi-disciplinary, flexible approach to care. AIM To identify the palliative care needs and models of care for people who use drugs and/or alcohol. DESIGN A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted using the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis. DATA SOURCES Six databases were searched to identify relevant studies. Full text review and quality appraisal were completed independently and in-duplicate by two reviewers with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. Qualitative and quantitative data were tabulated together using narrative synthesis, then categorised according to outcomes of interest, with similar and divergent findings reported accordingly. RESULTS Thirteen studies were included, nine qualitative and four quantitative, using a range of data collection methods, across various settings. The difficulties for individuals who use alcohol and/or drugs as well as their formal and informal carers, in relation to end-of-life care were examined, revealing access, care and skills issues. Three themes emerged which could underpin the development of a model of care: interpersonal/organisational relationships; holistic care; and collaborating with other services and training. CONCLUSION Despite end-of-life needs of this population being different to others, challenges include creating inclusive policies, sensitising staff to distinctive individual needs and training exchanges for staff working in both drug and alcohol services and palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Cook
- Nursing & Midwifery, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - John Doran
- Palliative Care, Melbourne City Mission, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate Crosbie
- Palliative Care, Melbourne City Mission, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Phillipa Sweeney
- Palliative Care, Melbourne City Mission, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ian Millard
- Palliative Care, Melbourne City Mission, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Margaret O'Connor
- Nursing & Midwifery, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Palliative Care, Melbourne City Mission, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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14
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Marchand MH. L’accès aux soins palliatifs, équitable pour tous ? Le cas des personnes en fin de vie vivant l’itinérance. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS 2022. [DOI: 10.7202/1094695ar] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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15
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Ho JJ, Jones KF, Sager Z, Wakeman S, Merlin JS. De-Stigmatizing the Language of Addiction #429. J Palliat Med 2022; 25:155-157. [PMID: 34978913 PMCID: PMC9022126 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J. Janet Ho
- Fast Facts and Concepts are edited by Sean Marks, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin) and associate editor Drew A. Rosielle, MD (University of Minnesota Medical School), with the generous support of a volunteer peer-review editorial board, and are made available online by the Palliative Care Network of Wisconsin (PCNOW); the authors of each individual Fast Fact are solely responsible for that Fast Fact's content. The full set of Fast Facts is available at PCNOW with contact information, and how to reference Fast Facts.,Address correspondence to: J. Janet Ho, MD, MPH, Department of Medicine, Division of Palliative Medicine, Box 0125, University of California San Francisco, 521 Parnassus, Floor 05, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Katie F. Jones
- Fast Facts and Concepts are edited by Sean Marks, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin) and associate editor Drew A. Rosielle, MD (University of Minnesota Medical School), with the generous support of a volunteer peer-review editorial board, and are made available online by the Palliative Care Network of Wisconsin (PCNOW); the authors of each individual Fast Fact are solely responsible for that Fast Fact's content. The full set of Fast Facts is available at PCNOW with contact information, and how to reference Fast Facts
| | - Zachary Sager
- Fast Facts and Concepts are edited by Sean Marks, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin) and associate editor Drew A. Rosielle, MD (University of Minnesota Medical School), with the generous support of a volunteer peer-review editorial board, and are made available online by the Palliative Care Network of Wisconsin (PCNOW); the authors of each individual Fast Fact are solely responsible for that Fast Fact's content. The full set of Fast Facts is available at PCNOW with contact information, and how to reference Fast Facts
| | - Sarah Wakeman
- Fast Facts and Concepts are edited by Sean Marks, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin) and associate editor Drew A. Rosielle, MD (University of Minnesota Medical School), with the generous support of a volunteer peer-review editorial board, and are made available online by the Palliative Care Network of Wisconsin (PCNOW); the authors of each individual Fast Fact are solely responsible for that Fast Fact's content. The full set of Fast Facts is available at PCNOW with contact information, and how to reference Fast Facts
| | - Jessica S. Merlin
- Fast Facts and Concepts are edited by Sean Marks, MD (Medical College of Wisconsin) and associate editor Drew A. Rosielle, MD (University of Minnesota Medical School), with the generous support of a volunteer peer-review editorial board, and are made available online by the Palliative Care Network of Wisconsin (PCNOW); the authors of each individual Fast Fact are solely responsible for that Fast Fact's content. The full set of Fast Facts is available at PCNOW with contact information, and how to reference Fast Facts
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16
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Rowley J, Richards N, Carduff E, Gott M. The impact of poverty and deprivation at the end of life: a critical review. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2021; 15:26323524211033873. [PMID: 34541536 PMCID: PMC8442481 DOI: 10.1177/26323524211033873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This critical review interrogates what we know about how poverty and deprivation impact people at the end of life and what more we need to uncover. While we know that people in economically resource-rich countries who experience poverty and deprivation over the life course are likely to die younger, with increased co-morbidities, palliative care researchers are beginning to establish a full picture of the disproportionate impact of poverty on how, when and where we die. This is something the Covid-19 pandemic has further illustrated. Our article uses a critical social science lens to investigate an eclectic range of literature addressing health inequities and is focused on poverty and deprivation at the end of life. Our aim was to see if we could shed new light on the myriad ways in which experiences of poverty shape the end of people's lives. We start by exploring the definitions and language of poverty while acknowledging the multiple intersecting identities that produce privilege. We then discuss poverty and deprivation as a context for the nature of palliative care need and overall end-of-life circumstances. In particular, we explore: total pain; choice at the end of life; access to palliative care; and family caregiving. Overall, we argue that in addressing the effects of poverty and deprivation on end-of-life experiences, there is a need to recognise not just socio-economic injustice but also cultural and symbolic injustice. Too often, a deficit-based approach is adopted which both 'Others' those living with poverty and renders invisible the strategies and resilience they develop to support themselves, their families and communities. We conclude with some recommendations for future research, highlighting in particular the need to amplify the voices of people with lived experience of poverty regarding palliative and end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Rowley
- End of Life Studies Group, School of
Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Naomi Richards
- End of Life Studies Group, School of
Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Merryn Gott
- Professor, Te Ārai Palliative Care and End of
Life Research Group, School of Nursing, The University of Auckland, Private
Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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17
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Pollock K, Wilson E, Caswell G, Latif A, Caswell A, Avery A, Anderson C, Crosby V, Faull C. Family and health-care professionals managing medicines for patients with serious and terminal illness at home: a qualitative study. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr09140] [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
Background
More effective ways of managing symptoms of chronic and terminal illness enable patients to be cared for, and to die, at home. This requires patients and family caregivers to manage complex medicines regimens, including powerful painkillers that can have serious side effects. Little is known about how patients and family caregivers manage the physical and emotional work of managing medicines in the home or the support that they receive from health-care professionals and services.
Objective
To investigate how patients with serious and terminal illness, their family caregivers and the health-care professionals manage complex medication regimens and routines of care in the domestic setting.
Design
A qualitative study involving (1) semistructured interviews and group discussions with 40 health-care professionals and 21 bereaved family caregivers, (2) 20 patient case studies with up to 4 months’ follow-up and (3) two end-of-project stakeholder workshops.
Setting
This took place in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire, UK.
Results
As patients’ health deteriorated, family caregivers assumed the role of a care co-ordinator, undertaking the everyday work of organising and collecting prescriptions and storing and administering medicines around other care tasks and daily routines. Participants described the difficulties of navigating a complex and fragmented system and the need to remain vigilant about medicines prescribed, especially when changes were made by different professionals. Access to support, resilience and coping capacity are mediated through the resources available to patients, through the relationships that they have with people in their personal and professional networks, and, beyond that, through the wider connections – or disconnections – that these links have with others. Health-care professionals often lacked understanding of the practical and emotional challenges involved. All participants experienced difficulties in communication and organisation within a health-care system that they felt was complicated and poorly co-ordinated. Having a key health professional to support and guide patients and family caregivers through the system was important to a good experience of care.
Limitations
The study achieved diversity in the recruitment of patients, with different characteristics relating to the type of illness and socioeconomic circumstances. However, recruitment of participants from ethnically diverse and disadvantaged or hard-to-reach populations was particularly challenging, and we were unable to include as many participants from these groups as had been originally planned.
Conclusions
The study identified two key and inter-related areas in which patient and family caregiver experience of managing medicines at home in end-of-life care could be improved: (1) reducing work and responsibility for medicines management and (2) improving co-ordination and communication in health care. It is important to be mindful of the need for transparency and open discussion about the extent to which patients and family caregivers can and should be co-opted as proto-professionals in the technically and emotionally demanding tasks of managing medicines at the end of life.
Future work
Priorities for future research include investigating how allocated key professionals could integrate and co-ordinate care and optimise medicines management; the role of domiciliary home care workers in supporting medicines management in end-of-life care; patient and family perspectives and understanding of anticipatory prescribing and their preferences for involvement in decision-making; the experience of medicines management in terminal illness among minority, disadvantaged and hard-to-reach patient groups; and barriers to and facilitators of increased involvement of community pharmacists in palliative and end-of-life care.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 9, No. 14. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Pollock
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eleanor Wilson
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Glenys Caswell
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Asam Latif
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Alan Caswell
- Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Dementia, Frail Older and Palliative Care Patient and Public Involvement Advisory Group, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Anthony Avery
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Claire Anderson
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Vincent Crosby
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
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18
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Jones KF, Ho JJ, Sager Z, Childers J, Merlin J. Adapting Palliative Care Skills to Provide Substance Use Disorder Treatment to Patients With Serious Illness. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:101-107. [PMID: 33685244 DOI: 10.1177/1049909121999783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of Palliative Care (PC) clinicians report recently caring for a person with a Substance Use Disorder (SUD). The impact of an untreated SUD is associated with significant suffering but many PC clinicians report a lack of confidence in managing this population. OBJECTIVE This paper aims to demonstrate existing PC skills that can be adapted to provide primary SUD treatment. METHODS A comprehensive literature review was conducted on quality PC domains and core SUD treatment principles. To demonstrate the shared philosophy and skills of PC clinicians and SUD treatment, the National Consensus Project Clinical Practice Guidelines for Quality Palliative Care and resources outlining core Addiction Medicine and Nursing Competencies were used. RESULTS There is an abundance of overlapping domains in PC and SUD treatment. This paper focuses on the domains of communication, team-based care, quality of life considerations, addressing social determinants of health, and adherence to ethical principles. In each section, the shared domain in PC and SUD treatment is discussed and steps to expand PC clinician's skills are provided. CONCLUSION PC clinicians may be among the last healthcare touchpoint for persons with SUD, by naming the shared skills required in PC and evidenced-based SUD treatment, we challenge the field to undertake primary SUD treatment as part of its constant pursuit to better serve people living with serious illness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Janet Ho
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Zachary Sager
- New England Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julie Childers
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jessica Merlin
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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19
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Haley EM, Stone J, Childers J, Davis A, Ehrman S, Houser MW, Olenik JM, Roche M, Jones CA, Skarf LM. Top Ten Tips Palliative Care Clinicians Should Know About Opioid Use Disorder. J Palliat Med 2020; 23:1250-1256. [PMID: 32716738 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the prevalence of substance use disorders, and opioid use disorder (OUD) specifically, remains high and represents a public health crisis, it is critical that palliative care (PC) providers have a broad understanding of this class of chronic, yet treatable, diseases. Conceptualizing stigma associated with OUD, treatment modalities available, and educational opportunities are key factors in providing patient-centered care. A solid foundation of knowledge about OUD in the setting of serious illness is also crucial as PC providers often recommend or prescribe opioids for symptom management in patients who also have OUD. Furthermore, the PC interdisciplinary team is particularly well poised to care for patients suffering from OUD due to the inherently holistic approach already present in the specialty of PC. This article offers PC teams a framework for understanding the diagnosis and treatment of OUD, methods for performing risk stratification and monitoring, and an overview of opportunities to enhance our care of PC patients with OUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin M Haley
- Palliative Care Service, Department of Medicine, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jordan Stone
- Section of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Julie Childers
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amy Davis
- Drexel University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Ehrman
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Mackenzie W Houser
- Palliative Care Team, Main Line Health, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jennifer M Olenik
- Section of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Meaghan Roche
- Division of Renal Electrolyte and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christopher A Jones
- Section of Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lara M Skarf
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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