End-of-Life Issues in UK Medical Schools

Abstract

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Palliative care education for medical students: Differences in course evolution, organisation, evaluation and funding: A survey of all UK medical schools

“…A 2000 study found PC teaching was offered as a separate course in 13% of medical schools, compared to 20% in a 2013 survey. 6,14 In 2000, PC was covered in 'only 1 or 2 lectures' in 13% of schools (10% in 2013), as module of a larger course in 25% of schools in 200 (26% in 2013) and 'integrated throughout the curriculum' in 50% in both periods. 6,14 Incorporation of PC into the curriculum involves 'a complex process of individual, institutional, clinical, patient and curricular factors'.…”

“…6,14 In 2000, PC was covered in 'only 1 or 2 lectures' in 13% of schools (10% in 2013), as module of a larger course in 25% of schools in 200 (26% in 2013) and 'integrated throughout the curriculum' in 50% in both periods. 6,14 Incorporation of PC into the curriculum involves 'a complex process of individual, institutional, clinical, patient and curricular factors'. 13 This study demonstrates considerable variation in the development and organisation of PC education across UK medical schools, with limited leadership, course review, titular recognition of educators and resource allocation in some institutions, especially those without academic PC departments.…”

A 40-Year History of End-of-Life Offerings in US Medical Schools: 1975-2015

“…9 The majority of US medical schools now offer this option for which 90% of students are involved. Studies have shown 17,18 that introducing medical personnel to palliative care, particularly hospice, helps to protect the patient from ineffective interventions near the end of life and assists the patient and family in making educated decisions regarding treatment options.…”

“…The number of teaching hours, however, has not changed significantly in the 21st Century (average number in 2015 was 13; United Kingdom averaged 27 hours). 9 An interdisciplinary team effort has increased, as the trend in offerings and the professional background of the ''team'' has varied over time, with physicians continuing as the key players. A meta-analysis of EOL studies 10 presented evidence of the training experience of residents revealing that a multidisciplinary approach improved confidence and overall EOL care and also helped students to cope with death experiences.…”

“…Hospice visits by medical students have increased over time, from 43% of medical schools offering such in 2000 to 75% in 2015, approaching the percentage of involvement in British medical schools where 85% of schools have such visits. 9 The majority of US medical schools now offer this option for which 90% of students are involved. Studies have shown 17,18 that introducing medical personnel to palliative care, particularly hospice, helps to protect the patient from ineffective interventions near the end of life and assists the patient and family in making educated decisions regarding treatment options.…”