Integration of early palliative care in mainstream care for patients with severe COPD
COPD patients often have physical and psychosocial needs which are poorly addressed. Specialized palliative care services are typically not accessed. This study aims to develop and evaluate a model of integration of early palliative home care in treatment of severe COPD in Flanders, in order to significantly improve the quality of care and quality of life.
Background
Severe COPD impacts heavily on patients' and their relatives' emotional and social functioning and on their daily activities. The physical and psychosocial needs of COPD patients are often poorly addressed, and palliative care services are typically not accessed. The positive effects of early palliative care on survival, symptom management, quality of life and satisfaction with care have been well documented in lung cancer patients with similar symptomatology. Palliative care, if provided early, may adequately address symptoms and issues of communication, transitions, costs, and could thus mean a major improvement in quality of care for COPD patients.
Aims
The overall objective or this study is to develop and evaluate a model of integration of early palliative home care in treatment of COPD in Flanders, Belgium, in order to significantly improve the quality of care and quality of life of patients with severe COPD (ie stages III-IV COPD).
Methods
The study will encompass phases 0-2 of the Medical Research Council (MRC) framework for development and evaluation of interventions.
Project group
Charlotte Scheerens: researcher
Prof. dr. Kenneth Chambaere: supervisor & co-promotor
Prof. dr. Luc Deliens: promotor
Prof. dr. Guy Joos: member
Prof. dr. Simon Van Belle: member
