General practitioners (GPs) and palliative care: perceived tasks and barriers in daily practice

Abstract

This study revealed a complex web of tasks and barriers. It may be possible to trace back a problem (lack of knowledge, for example) on the personal level to an isolated knowledge gap, but the problem may well have originated from communication or compartmentalization problems. To maintain GPs' feeling of being at ease with palliative care requires helping them acquire the appropriate balance between technical and organizational interventions and a compassionate orientation to their terminally ill patients.

Interdisciplinary cooperation of GPs in palliative care at home: A nationwide survey in the Netherlands

“…One of the caregivers involved must be responsible for the organization of the involvement of all relevant disciplines. In palliative care at home, GPs or DNs could perform this task [28]; however, there is still discussion on who should be in charge [9,29,30]. For the patient, this is less important as long as any competent caregiver will perform this task.…”

Opinions of the Dutch public on palliative sedation: a mixed-methods approach

“…Another unwanted consequence may be that the confusion between palliative sedation and euthanasia increases, also for healthcare professionals who currently feel supported by guidelines and the law clearly distinguishing both practices. 24,25 Finally, according to the interviewed responders, relieving patients from suffering and the wishes of the patient for palliative sedation were important arguments to support the use of palliative sedation. Dying pain-free with dignity and having a sense of control have been found to be important aspects of a 'good death' elsewhere, too.…”

The Family Physician's Perceived Role in Preventing and Guiding Hospital Admissions at the End of Life: A Focus Group Study

“…24,25 Such continuity is a rare achievement, and being available at all times can be difficult and demanding. [26][27][28] Moreover, family physicians might sometimes feel unable to provide up-to-date and adequate end-oflife care, 26,27,29 and decisions about a transfer to a hospital at the end of life can be complex and multifaceted. 30 In Belgium there is a strong emphasis on primary care, with almost 95% of the population having a family physician whom they consult regularly (78% at least once a year).…”