Implementation of Anticipatory Care Planning Processes in D&G
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigation of the implementation and impact of anticipatory care planning at the end of life in Dumfries and Galloway
IRAS ID
209751
Contact name
Jacqueline Kandsberger
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 9 days
Research summary
The population of Dumfries and Galloway (D&G) is rapidly aging and living longer with multiple, complex, long-term health needs. The Strategic Framework for Action on Palliative and End of Life Care (2016-2021) in Scotland aims to provide all individuals with timely and focused conversations to plan their care around their needs and preferences at the end of life. Anticipatory care planning (ACP) is being promoted as a person-centred solution for this, however, its impact on patient outcomes is rarely measured and evidence of difficulties with its implementation are mounting.
This study is designed to address the paucity of information available on how ACP is currently being operationalised across D&G and where, how, and why challenges arise. It will explore what impact the process has on patient outcomes and on the work of professionals, ultimately informing further local policy development for the process.
GPs from practices representative of the various districts of D&G and levels of urban-rural classifications will be recruited to participate in the study. Over a 12 month period, every time a patient registered with a recruited GP dies, data on ACP will be extracted from their medical record, notably the Key Information Summary (KIS). Following this, the GP and if applicable a nurse involved in the care will complete a survey detailing the end of life care planning discussions that were had with the specific patient. At the start and end of the study each participating healthcare professional (HCP) from primary care and individuals from secondary care will fill in a survey asking them about their perspectives on the implementation of the process in general.
This is an exploratory study, aiming to gain a more detailed understanding how ACP is operationalised across D&G compared with the theoretical principles promoted by policy and how this relates to patient outcome measures. Among other contextual factors, this study will also capture potential variations between care professionals and between patient illness trajectories.REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/1921
Date of REC Opinion
10 Nov 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion