PA9 Developing a palliative hub: lessons from the island of ireland

BMJ Support Palliat Care. 2015 Apr:5 Suppl 1:A22. doi: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2015-000906.69.

Abstract

Background: Meeting the information needs of entire community including patients, families, carers, health and social care professionals and researchers is important in a society where online resources are an increasing source of information. Providing this information digitally on one location will reduce the burden on individuals trying to navigate the internet and multiple sources of information, which may not be appropriate or relevant.

Aim: To develop The Palliative Hub as a gateway for information, education and guidance regarding palliative care.

Methods: Drawing on the skills and expertise of a range of stakeholders, working groups were established, which represented service users, carers, providers, charities and advocacy groups. The purpose of these groups was to assist with the design and development of the Palliative Hub, as sites to provide information, education and guidance about palliative care. The Palliative Hub, whilst providing information, also acts to filter and direct the user to the most relevant sources of further information.

Results: It is anticipated that this resource will assist with meeting the palliative care information and education needs of the entire community in one place with key signposts to relevant sources and resources.

Conclusion: The Palliative Hub has the potential to become an integral element in meeting the palliative care information and education needs of the entire community and is an example of an innovative and collaborative project across the island of Ireland, which could be translated across other jurisdictions.