Acceptability and feasibility of a carer self-report checklist of bereavement risk in palliative care

Introduction: Palliative care (PC) providers accept that bereavement support to family carers is their responsibility. However, due to increasing financial pressures and changing understandings of grief, it is timely to review bereavement service provision. Objectives: This research aimed to develop a bereavement risk assessment model for PC based on a three-tiered public health approach aligning carer need with support, compatible with bereavement standards. Approach: Five phases of action research working with PC health professionals and family carers involved 1) scoping review to identify grief measures; 2) reference group of PC stakeholders; 3) development of carer checklist; 4) pilot at three PC services; 5) evaluation. Thematic analysis of data. Practice Implications: A brief self-report checklist Is acceptable to carers and assisted staff with bereavement follow-up. Barriers to bereavement assessment and service provision were identified; i.e. late referral to PC, staff gatekeeping and limitations to bereavement services. Conclusions: In a changing PC environment it is timely to review the assessment of bereavement support needs. Improving staff understanding of grief and addressing barriers to assessment will enhance assessment practice prior to the patient's death, leading to appropriate and effective support, allowing PC staff to focus on delivery of care to those with life-limiting illness