Health & social care in the community
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Health Soc Care Community · Nov 2012
Do models of care designed for terminally ill 'home alone' people improve their end-of-life experience? A patient perspective.
Palliative care patients who live alone report greater psychological distress, and are less likely to die at home than those living with a family carer. However, there is a lack of research on the value of models of care that specifically address this disadvantage. This article describes the experiences of terminally ill 'home alone' people using one of two models of care aimed at maintaining participants' need for independent living, focusing on the effect of these two models of care on their physical, social and emotional needs. ⋯ The personal alarm model of care imparted a sense of security; provided peace of mind; and helped to deal with feelings of isolation. Participants in both groups felt that they could remain at home longer. By providing a safer, more secure environment through the use of a personal alarm or additional care-aide hours, patients were able to continue their activities of daily living, could build a sense of 'normality' into their lives, and they could live independently through support and dignity.
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Health Soc Care Community · Nov 2012
General Practitioners' perceptions of their role in cancer care and factors which influence this role.
Effective cancer care depends on inter-sectoral and inter-professional communication. General Practitioners (GPs) play a pivotal role in managing the health of most Australians, but their role in cancer care is unclear. This qualitative study explored GPs' views of this role and factors influencing their engagement with cancer care. ⋯ Non-metropolitan GPs learn from experience how to overcome referral and communication challenges. While the GPs identified solutions to their concerns, the role can be daunting. GPs are motivated to provide long-term care for their patients, but need to be acknowledged and supported by the health system.