What terminally ill patients value in the support provided by GPs, district and Macmillan nurses

Abstract

The aim of this project was to investigate how patients view the care and support provided by their doctors and nurses. Forty-three patients with a life expectancy of 1 year or less who were being looked after in their own homes were asked to give their views of the support given by general practitioners, district nurses and Macmillan nurses. Patients had predominantly positive views of the support received. The content of their positive statements suggested that psychosocial aspects of support, including communication and kindness and consideration shown, were valued most. Actions in the form of helpfulness, organization of support and being accessible were also important, while clinical aspects received less emphasis. Clinical aspects of care were emphasized more when patients expressed negative views of support. Patients' statements suggested that emotional support and information were provided predominantly by Macmillan nurses.