The WHO objectives for palliative care: to what extent are we achieving them?

Abstract

This paper examines recent research in palliative care in the light of the guiding principles set out by the World Health Organization. It outlines the gaps in the literature and suggests priorities for future research. Areas of unmet need are documented and it is argued that research comparing outcomes across care settings and relating particular care practices to outcome measures would help to set care targets. Further definition of the expected outcomes of psychological and spiritual care, as well as care for carers, is recommended. Available measures are reviewed and suggestions made for the development of additional measures. Finally, some key methodological problems are discussed, incl..