Structures in Specialised Out-patient Palliative Care in Germany - Results of an Online Survey

摘要

Specialised outpatient palliative caring (SAPV) has been available in Germany for nearly ten years. SAPV structures exist in all German federal states but coverage is still not comprehensive. For further development, assessment at the level of care providers, quantitative and qualitative composition of the PCT, networking, coordination and organisational structures is important. This survey was conducted in physicians from independent practices and hospitals if it was known that they worked within SAPV structures with the aim of collecting and analysing data from everyday German healthcare practice. It is the first survey to include physicians from different specializations and to ask specifically about SAPV in Germany. SAPV is undertaken predominantly on a multi-professional basis; qualified general practitioners are the most strongly represented group of specialists. They cooperate closely with colleagues from other specializations and from non-medical professions. Mostly, physicians deliver SAPV alongside their activity in an independent practice or hospital, which further increases the high workload involved. In Germany, SAPV has developed into an essential structural element of palliative care. Its further development must be systematically promoted.