Cancer Patients Asked For Views On Out-of-hours Palliative CareApril 24, 2002A new study, aimed at improving care in the community for patients with cancer, has begun, headed by a team of University of Edinburgh researchers, clinicians and lecturers. The research will look at the out-of-hours medical, nursing and social work services needs of patients and their carers, who need help with a range of problems including pain relief and vomiting. The two-year study, funded by the Chief Scientist Office, will look at evidence drawn from patients and carers in Midlothian, Glasgow and the Borders and is designed to better the quality and accessibility of services. Dr Scott Murray, a Senior Lecturer in General Practice at the University of Edinburgh's Department of Community Health Sciences, said: "Recent reorganisation of out-of-hours primary care has resulted in the formation of many large GP co-operatives. However, for some patients, such as those with cancer, where personal and continuing care may be important, these organisations may seem less accessible and appropriate. Nursing and social work services out-of-hours are also changing, and we know that many professionals consider that out-of-hours palliative care is sub-optimal, from their own perspective. "However, much less is known about what palliative care patients and their carers feel is needed and their views of services. NHS 24, the new 24-hour telephone service may offer simple and convenient access for patients quickly and efficiently, but its place in palliative care provision must be carefully planned to prevent duplication and confusion." Patients and their carers will be asked about their experiences of out-of-hours care; and asked how they arrive at the decision to request, or decide not to ask for help from medical or other staff. Professionals including palliative care doctors and nurses, general practitioners, district nurses, and social workers will also be interviewed. Twelve users of the out-of-hours services from each of the three areas will be interviewed at home: eight from general practice co-operatives and four from evening/night nursing services. "Patients and their carers will be encouraged to reflect on their recent felt needs out-of-hours, and their experience of out-of-hours services," said Dr Murray. Edinburgh, University of |
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