PERCEPTIONS OF HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS ON FACILITATING ADVANCE CARE PLANNING DISCUSSIONS

Abstract

Background: Advance Care Planning (ACP) now forms an important part of the palliative care process across the world, with proven benefits for both patients and their caregivers. In Singapore however, the number of patients taking up ACP has been low. Any healthcare professional (HCP) who has completed the ACP Facilitator course can conduct the discussion, and their views on these discussions could be relevant in improving enrollment rates. Limited studies have been conducted in this area. Aim: This study aims to examine the perceptions of ACP discussion amongst HCPs. Design: This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach. Methodology: A purposive sample of 19 HCPs who are qualified ACP facilitators working in a local tertiary hospital and have completed at least one ACP discussion were interviewed. Face to face interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Audio-recordings of interviews were transcribed, and thematic analysis performed Results: Four themes emerged after thematic analysis – (1) value of ACP, (2) the “Asian context”, (3) “real world problems”, (4) “improving accessibility”. Conclusion: The present study findings are important additions to the current limited pool of research on ACP, especially in a local context. By recognizing the influence of culture and barriers to uptake, institutions and HCPs should tailor approaches to address these issues.