Disparities in Advanced Care Planning: Exploring Factors, Outcomes, and Equity

Purpose

ACP is pivotal in patient care. It emphasizes respecting an individual's values, preferences, and goals in decision-making. Although ACP is beneficial to patients and families, disparities persist, particularly among marginalized groups. We undertook this study to assess these disparities between ACP among patients of various groups and evaluate the relationship between these factors on shared-decision making.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis collected data from a single facility spanning March to September 2023, focusing on palliative care encounters. Data were categorized by demographics (race, age, gender) and factors affecting patient and family decisions, including religion, marital status, diagnosis, and ultimate choices (DNR/DNI, comfort-measures, hospice). We examined these variables through logistic regression models, chi-square tests, and F-tests (p < 0.05) to uncover potential correlations with advanced care planning.

Results

End-stage dementia patients showed a significant association with the likelihood and probability of undergoing ACP. Patients opting for comfort-directed care, DNR/DNI, and hospice care correlated significantly with ACP. Interestingly, there was no statistically significant association (p-value >0.05) between race, gender, marital status, religion, or age and the likelihood of undergoing ACP.

Conclusion

Our results diverge from past trends, showing diminished rates of ACP completion among specific ethnic and religious demographics. One potential rationale is the integration of social workers within our facility, actively engaging in ACP with patients. This approach facilitates early interventions and ensures comprehensive patient services across both outpatient and inpatient settings. Overcoming obstacles to ACP conversations and embracing diverse perspectives is essential to achieving equitable and compassionate end-of-life care.