Identification of Quality Indicators of End-of-Life Cancer Care From Medical Chart Review Using a Modified Delphi Method in Japan

Abstract

End-of life care is one of the principle components of cancer care. Measurement of the quality of care provided for end-of-life cancer patients is an important issue. The aim of this study was to identify the quality indicators (QIs) for end-of-life cancer care for Japanese patients using a medical chart review. A modified Delphi method for the development of QIs was adopted. Seventeen multi-professional specialists participated by rating the appropriateness and feasibility of potential QIs. Thirty QIs for end-of-life cancer care were ultimately identified within 4 domains: (1) symptom control, (2) decision-making and preference of care, (3) family care, and (4) psychosocial and spiritual concerns. These QIs will be useful for monitoring and evaluating end-of-life care for Japanese cancer patients. The QIs are feasible for use in any clinical setting and cover a comprehensive area in accordance with the World Health Organization's (WHO) definition of palliative care including physical, psychosocial, and spiritual concerns.

Keywords

palliative care neoplasms quality indicators Delphi technique terminal care quality of life

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