Effective palliative care for hospice transitions

A new program at Brigham and Women's Hospital has successfully streamlined hospice transitions for patients nearing the end of life, increasing transitions within 96 hours of ED arrival to 54.1 percent. The program uses AI algorithm, dedicated care management, and emergency department rounds to flag potential candidates and mobilize ho...

A new study finds that benzodiazepines and antipsychotics prescribed to patients with dementia receiving hospice care may carry major unintended risks, including increased mortality. The study highlights two policy issues: lack of oversight of medication use in hospice and a mismatch between hospice policy and dementia care.

A new multicenter trial demonstrates that hepatologists trained in palliative care can deliver the same quality-of-life benefits as a palliative care specialist. Quality of life improved significantly in both groups, with symptom burden and short-term mortality comparable between groups.

Black patients with short hospice stays and those from for-profit hospice services are at higher risk of hospitalization after discharge. Researchers found that uninterrupted hospice care may be suitable for many individuals discharged from hospice, while inpatient respite and general inpatient care can lower hospitalization odds.

A new study by MIT scholars finds that hospice care generates substantial savings for the US Medicare system, with $29,000 in cost savings over five years for patients with Alzheimer's Disease. Hospice care provides palliative-type care at a lower cost than elaborate medical procedures, saving lives and reducing suffering.

A group of palliative medicine consultants criticize the APM's strong opposition to legalizing assisted dying, arguing it undercuts confidence in palliative care and stifles open discussion. They propose a more nuanced approach, acknowledging that end-of-life decisions should be made with trained healthcare professionals involved.