Improving Knowledge and Attitudes About Palliative Care Through Community Collaborations: A Mixed Methods Intervention Evaluation.

Abstract

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Limited knowledge and negative perceptions of palliative care (PC) can result in missed opportunities to access specialty PC. Patient, caregiver, and community education may improve knowledge and attitudes about PC. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Pre- and post-session surveys along with qualitative interivews assessed whether participation in a novel 60-minute webinar about specialty PC changed participants' PC knowledge and attitudes. Participants were recruited in collaboration with community based organizations and included self-identified patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and other individuals interested in the topic. <b><i>Results:</i></b> A total of 118 participants completed pre- and post-session surveys. Participants demonstrated a significant increase in PC knowledge on the Palliative Care Knowledge Scale (10.6 vs. 12.5, <i>p</i> < 0.001). Pre-session attitudes were positive and further improved after the educational session. Qualitative interviews demonstrated that participants learned that PC provides more services than previously thought and could ask for a PC referral. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> We conclude that a 60-minute webinar improved knowledge and attitudes about specialty PC, including a willingness to ask for and accept a referral to PC.