Effectiveness of Palliative Care Approaches in the Community: A Systematic Review

Background : Palliative care (PC) is crucial for improving the quality of life (QoL) for patients with serious illnesses. This systematic review examines the effectiveness of community-based palliative care approaches and their impact on patients and their families. Methods : We conducted a systematic review in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, searching databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. The review focused on studies, including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and qualitative research that reported on community-based PC. Inclusion criteria included studies involving adults with life-limiting illnesses receiving PC in community settings. Results: Our review identified 20 studies that highlight the significant benefits of community-based PC. Overall, these approaches were found to improve patient satisfaction and QoL. Patients reported feeling more comfortable and supported in their home environments. Moreover, effective communication and coordination with family members and healthcare professionals contributed to emotional well-being and reduced feelings of isolation. Conclusions: Community-based PC is effective in addressing the needs of patients and their families. Future research should focus on long-term outcomes and ensure these services are culturally sensitive and accessible to diverse populations. Enhancing the integration of community resources and family involvement is essential for delivering comprehensive palliative care. Practice implications : To improve palliative care, it's essential to offer holistic, community-based support, actively involving patients and their families in decisions. Better communication among care teams and ensuring easy access to local resources are also crucial. Finally, adapting care to respect diverse cultural needs will greatly enhance patient well-being.