Dying patients’ choices not always aligned to caregivers'

Singapore: An illuminating study compares the willingness of stage IV cancer patients, and their caregivers; to pay to extend their lives by one year against that of other end-of-life improvements. Patients with advanced cancer or other life limiting illnesses often have to consider how much money they are willing to spend on high cost treatments that result in only moderate improvements in length or quality of life. These decisions are very difficult for patients to make, and in some cases the decision is entirely deferred to a family caregiver.

End of life care alters medical student attitudes to practice

Adelaide: Earlier exposure to palliative care can enhance junior doctors' professionalism, focus on and communication with all patients, and other important aspects of care, according to a study from the University of Adelaide. Palliative care is the provision of support for patients with life-threatening illnesses who are approaching the end of their lives.