The Optimal Delivery of Palliative Care (DRAFT)
This study aimed to compare the effect of palliative care consultation teams with that of dedicated palliative care units on the quality of end-of-life care. This was a telephone-base survey conducted in 77 Veterans Affairs medical centers that had provided both models of care. Deceased patients from July 2008 to December 2009 were identified. A family member of the decedent was invited to participate in the survey which consisted of one global rating item and nine core items pertaining to patient’s end-of-life care. Families of patients who received care in a palliative care unit were more likely to report “excellent” care compared to families of those who received at least one palliative care consultation; families of those who received at least one palliative care consultation in turn where more likely to report “excellent” care compared to families of those who received usual care.