Hospice Society to collaborate with McMaster University on research project

Dec 6, 2022 | 2:00 PM

An agreement has been reached between the North Okanagan Hospice Society (NOHS) and McMaster University for a research project.

The initiative will examine scaling up a palliative program in long-term care across the province. A palliative approach in long-term care (LTC) relies on evidence-based processes to provide high quality care for LTC residents living with chronic and life-limiting illnesses.

NOHS, which runs a 12-bed end-of-life care facility in Vernon, will be supporting the project through:

⦁ Identifying provincial partners for surveys and interviews

⦁ Assisting in the completion of surveys and interviews

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⦁ Scaling up plans to implement the approach in long term care homes in British Columbia.

“This project aligns perfectly with NOHS’s strategic plan, where we are committed to improving the lives of people with a life-limiting illness through innovation and education. We are delighted to be a part of this important project,” Lisa Matthews, executive director of NOHS, commented.

Funding for the project has been provided by Health Canada.

The new approach provides individuals with a seamless transition from chronic disease management to appropriate end-of-life planning and care. Working alongside health professionals and family members, individuals with a life-limiting or life-ending illness are involved throughout the illness trajectory. Care is rooted in open and honest conversations so residents can ensure their personal, spiritual and emotional concerns are heard and addressed.

NOHS and McMaster University, which is based in Hamilton, Ont., say failure to proactively identify, discuss, and address end-of-life issues often leads to costly hospital stays and creates added stress or burden for families. Families and staff sometimes feel uncomfortable initiating early discussions about palliative care or what to do in the event of a change in health status. However, strengthening the capacity of long-term care (LTC) homes to engage in and support these discussions has real impact.

Early research demonstrates that implementing a palliative approach to care in LTC leads to improved family satisfaction and a 55 per cent reduction in emergency department visits for residents in their last year of life. As a result, more LTC residents can be supported to die according to their own wishes.

by Vernon Matters Staff

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