Research in palliative care

Research in palliative care is gaining momentum and good quality research is helping form an evidence base which clinicians will be able to work within. There are ongoing challenges with carrying out research in palliative care, including high attrition rates, culture and ethical views around research in patients with terminal illness, funding, and gatekeeping. However, it is essential that to provide the best care that robust research is carried out. This can take the form of qualitative and quantitative research, and both are useful and valid in developing a research base of evidence if they are used in the correct contexts.