Family practice
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To identify and synthesize evidence from studies examining the quality of care of dying patients in both specialist and general practitioner care. ⋯ There is limited evidence of improvements in the care of selected cancer patients, and a dearth of evidence concerning patients dying from other, more common causes. The methods of research used to date are of limited current utility and new methods are required.
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There are increasing numbers of older African-Caribbeans in the UK. Primary care staff often feel less confident about diagnosing depression in this group. Screening instruments may assist in making diagnoses in cross-cultural consultations. ⋯ These screening instruments demonstrate high sensitivity levels, if an appropriate cut-off point is used. The culture-specific instrument did not perform better than the traditional instruments. Health professionals should approach the consultation in a culturally sensitive manner and use the validated instrument they are most familiar with.