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Barriers to hospice care: family physicians' perceptions
K E Miller1, M M Miller, N Single
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Tennessee College of Medicine, TN, USA.
The Hospice Journal
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Family physicians desire more education in hospice care despite feeling comfortable providing it. Inadequate training in death and dying issues presents a key barrier to optimal end-of-life care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Palliative Care
- Family Medicine
Background:
- Family physicians play a crucial role in end-of-life care.
- Hospice care is an essential component of palliative medicine.
- Understanding physician-perceived barriers is vital for improving hospice provision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify barriers encountered by family physicians in delivering hospice care.
- To assess the adequacy of training and education in hospice and end-of-life care among family physicians.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was developed by the researchers.
- The survey was mailed to 1,013 randomly selected members of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
- Data were collected on perceived barriers, comfort levels, and educational needs regarding hospice care.
Main Results:
- Respondents expressed comfort with providing hospice care.
- A significant perceived barrier was inadequate education in death and dying, and hospice care.
- Access to hospice programs was generally reported as available.
Conclusions:
- Family physicians feel competent in hospice care delivery but highlight a need for enhanced education.
- Improving end-of-life and hospice care training is crucial for addressing physician-identified barriers.
- Further educational initiatives can support family physicians in providing comprehensive hospice services.