Palliative Care Education to Increase Outpatient Provider Knowledge and Palliative Care Referral Intent Within Veterans Healthcare System of the Ozarks

Abstract

Purpose: Examine outpatient providers' perceptions of palliative care education in increasing their understanding, knowledge of resources, and intent to refer. Research questions/goals: 1) Increase provider understanding about palliative care and the benefits that patients can receive as a result of early referral; 2) Increase provider knowledge of palliative care facilities and resources within VHSO; 3) Increase provider intent to use the referral process for patients in need of palliative care. Setting: Veterans Healthcare System of the Ozarks, Fayetteville, Arkansas. Participants: 14 outpatient providers within VHSO; 8 MDs, 4 NPs, and 2 PAs. Methods: Descriptive research study consisting of an education session, discussion, and completion of a demographics form and evaluation questionnaire. Results: Questionnaire scores: Goal 1) 4.9 (SD=1.27)/6; Goal 2) 5.07 (SD=1.1)/6; Goal 3) 5.1 (SD=1.1)/6. Open ended question themes: 1) 21.4%: palliative care was an "umbrella"; 35.7%: early referral improves outcomes; 21.4%: treatment plan can include curative therapies; 2) 28.6%: open group discussion; 14.3%: training opportunities; 21.4%: multidisciplinary team approach. 3) 35.7%: screenshots of the referral process; 14.3%: individual comments for the care plan; 21.4%: open discussion regarding referrals. 4) 14.3%: more about how to accommodate homebound Veterans; 28.6%: more about telehealth opportunities; 21.4%: more information on communication tactics. Conclusions: There is a knowledge deficit among outpatient care providers in regards to palliative care. The providers found this education session informative, beneficial, and increased their intent to initiate palliative care referrals.