What is the project about?
In a society where most people will be touched by cancer in some way, the way in which terminally ill patients are cared for is crucial. The studying of end-of-life care in Scotland has received a substantial boost from Medical Research Scotland.
We are studying the experiences of patients with advanced cancer and carers, through the promotion of self care. This research has been brought about by the need to create a patient-focused culture of involvement, listening and feedback. Self care by patients can improve quality of life, symptom management and increases patient satisfaction.
How is the research carried out?
The hallmark of the research will be participation- patients will be involved in the research from the early stages, both in terms of participating in the study as well as helping to plan and design the research.
The research will examine how cancer patients cope with end of life and what self care strategies have enabled them and their carers to manage it. Using this information and drawing on the experiences of health professionals, ways to improve service delivery for patients with advanced cancer will be investigated, so they can remain at home, if wished, for their end-of-life care. The research will involve a three-phase study of gathering information, conducting in-depth one-one interviews with patients, carers, health care professionals and analysing the data.
What are the findings expected to add to current practice?
Ultimately, we hope that this research will highlight areas for change, and we can begin to educate and work with people to enable a better quality of care for patients.
What is the current stage of the project?
Data collection and analysis are complete. Currently we are getting feedback from patients and health care professionals on the findings and then writing the report.
When will the project be completed?
The final draft of the report will be completed and sent to the funders in September 2008.
Funding Information
Medical Research Scotland Post Doctoral Fellowship. The Fellowship has been made available through the generosity of the late Mrs Mary Tyson of Dumfries who left her estate jointly to The Leonard Cheshire Foundation and to Medical Research Scotland.