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Inappropriate admissions/treatment amongst inpatients with palliative care needs

Year:
2010
Duration:
18 months
Approved budget:
$199,577.56
Researchers:
Professor Merryn Gott
Health issue:
Other (generic health or health services)
Proposal type:
Health Delivery Research Partnership Project
Lay summary
Optimising palliative care provision is a key priority internationally and within New Zealand. The potential to better meet patient and family/whanau needs at the end of life within existing health resources has been recognised by Auckland District Health Board (ADHB), who are partners in this project. This study will provide evidence to guide ADHB service reconfiguration and workforce development plans by identifying: 1) the extent, and current management of, inpatients with palliative care needs; 2) the potential to reduce hospital admissions amongst patients with palliative care needs who often prefer to receive end of life care at home; 3) any evidence that interventions received in the last phase of life are not appropriate to patient need; and 4) the education and training needs of ADHB clinical staff. This information will also be of significant relevance and interest to both national and international audiences of academics and policy makers.