iValidate: a communication-based clinical intervention in life-limiting illness

Abstract

Objectives Report the implementation, user evaluation and key outcome measures of an educational intervention - the iValidate educational programme - designed to improve engagement in shared decision-making by health professionals caring for patients with life-limiting illness (LLI). Design Prospective, descriptive, cohort study. Participants Health professionals working in acute care settings caring for patients with an LLI. Main outcomes measured Participant evaluation of learning outcomes for communication skills and shared decision-making; demographic data of participants attending education workshops; and documentation of patients with LLI goals of management, including patient values and care decision based on area in acute care and seniority of doctor. Results The programme was well accepted by participants. Participant evaluations demonstrated self-reported improved confidence in the areas of patient identification, information gathering to ascertain patient values and shared decision-making. There was strong agreement with the course-enhanced knowledge of core communication skills and advanced skills such as discussing mismatched agendas. Conclusions We described the educational pedagogy, implementation and key outcome measures of the iValidate education programme, an intervention designed to improve person-centred care for patients with an LLI. A targeted education programme could produce cultural and institutional change for vulnerable populations within a healthcare institution. A concurrent research programme suggests effectiveness within the current service and the potential for transferability.