iValidate: a communication-based clinical intervention in life-limiting illness

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Palliative Care
• Health Communication

Background:

• Effective shared decision-making is crucial for patients with life-limiting illnesses (LLI).
• Health professionals require specific skills to engage patients in care decisions, especially in acute care settings.
• The iValidate educational programme was developed to address these needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the implementation and user evaluation of the iValidate educational programme.
• To assess the impact of the iValidate programme on health professionals' engagement in shared decision-making for LLI patients.
• To identify key outcome measures related to improved person-centred care.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, descriptive, cohort study design.
• Involved health professionals in acute care settings serving patients with LLI.
• Evaluated participant self-reported learning outcomes in communication and shared decision-making, alongside demographic data and documentation of patient goals.

Main Results:

• The iValidate programme was well-received by participants.
• Demonstrated self-reported improvements in confidence regarding patient identification, information gathering, and shared decision-making.
• Participants agreed the course enhanced knowledge of core and advanced communication skills, including discussing sensitive topics.

Conclusions:

• The iValidate programme's pedagogy, implementation, and outcomes were documented, highlighting its role in improving person-centred care for LLI patients.
• Targeted education can foster cultural and institutional change for vulnerable patient populations.
• Concurrent research suggests the programme's effectiveness and potential for broader transferability.