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Abstract
The effects of bereavement are unique and support must be individually tailored. The role of the general practitioner (GP) in paediatric cancer palliative care is wide-ranging and challenging, yet little is known about offered bereavement support in this context. We carried out an in-depth secondary analysis of text relating to bereavement support from a semi-structured interview study exploring GPs’ and parents’ experiences. Findings highlight the importance of early GP-initiated face-to-face contact with parents, exploring opportunities for innovative practice and maintaining close collaboration with hospital-based teams. A co-ordinated, equitable and sustainable approach to bereavement support may help address identified GP knowledge deficits and time-pressures.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the participating parents and GPs and Professor Collette Clifford for their support with this study.
Declaration
This work was supported by a NIHR/CNO CAT Clinical Lectureship under grant CAT CL-09-06. This report is independent research arising from a Clinical Lectureship supported by the National Institute of Health Research and Chief Nursing Officer. The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NHD, the National Institute of Health Research or the Department of Health.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Susan J. Neilson
Faith Gibson
