A scoping review of 28 studies has considered the models of neuropalliative care (1). The studies were wideranging and included 4795 patients, 774 carers and 138 health care professionals. The themes that were seen included:
• Integrative multidisciplinary care
• Collaboration between neurological services and palliative care providers
• Primarily out patient multidisciplinary care
• The need for education for patients, carers and professionals was emphasised (2)
• Early referral was recommended
• Local systems often limited neuropalliative care and palliative care was often limited in its availability and accessibility
• The need for validated outcome measures, to allow assessment of the care provided, was felt to be important
• Advance care planning was an important aspect
The study showed that further research, particulalry into the most appropriate and effective way of providing care is necessary.
Comments:
Neuropalliative care is a developing area, with collaboration between neurology and palliative care specialists and teams. There is increasing awareness of the need for education of all involved and further research into new innovative models of care.
Key Points:
- Palliative care
- Progressive neurological disease
- Multidisciplinary care
- Collaboration
References:
- Grossman CH, Hearn R, McPhee M et al. Neuropalliative care for progressive neurological diseases: a scoping review on models of care and priorities for future research. Pall Med 2023; 37: 959-974. Doi: 10.1177/02692163231175696journals.sagepub.com/home/pmj
- Oliver DJ, Borasio GD, Caraceni A, de Visser M, Grisold W, Lorenzl S, Veronese S, Voltz R. A consensus review on the development of palliative care for patients with chronic and progressive neurological disease. Eur J Neurol 2016;23: 30-38.
Publish on behalf of the Scientific Panel Palliative care