Implementing an Advance Care Planning (ACP) Program for Cancer Patients

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to clinically implement an advance care planning (ACP) program using existing communication tools between patients and healthcare providers, and to clarify the effectiveness of the intervention. Methods: Cancer patients admitted to 2 departments at a local designated cancer hospital, as well as doctors and nurses, were divided into 2 groups: 9 people in the usual care group (control group), and 9 people in the intervention group utilizing the ACP program using an instruction manual, etc. Then, 6 items related to implementation status, and the effect of the ACP program were analyzed. Results: Regarding the implementation of the ACP program, the implementation rate was 42% (T1, 1 month later), 0% (T2), and 33% (T3). The effect of the ACP program was that discussion between healthcare providers and patients and families (P=0.0027) and care aligned with patient goals (P=0.0027) were significantly higher in the intervention group. Conclusion: By presenting specific behavioral indicators as an ACP program, this study served as a trigger for general ACP behavior among both patients and healthcare providers.