Data fail to show benefits of palliative care intervention

According to a recent literature review, few studies analyzing specialized palliative care show benefit with the intervention, and the current data suffer methodological weaknesses.

From a search of five major databases, researchers from Canada and Brazil reviewed 22 randomized controlled trials that analyzed specialized palliative care interventions with primary outcomes of quality of life, satisfaction with care and economic cost.

Family satisfaction with care was the most consistent improvement of specialized palliative care. Seven of 10 studies favored intervention based on this measurement. Of those studies that assessed quality of life four of 13 favored interventions; and one of 14 studies that analyzed symptoms favored interventions. Of seven reports analyzing the effects on cost savings, one had significant evidence that palliative care resulted in cost savings.

The researchers also reported that most studies lacked the ability to report definitive results. In all of the studies they analyzed, the researchers found methodological limitations and significant problems with recruitment, attrition and adherence.

“Carefully planned trials, using a standardized palliative care intervention and measures constructed specifically for this population, are needed,” the researchers wrote. – by Stacey L. Adams

JAMA. 2008;299:1698-1709.