The Clínic Hospital in Barcelona is leading the way in end-of-life care, incorporating comprehensive support for patients and families into its strategic plan. With an average of two or three people passing away every day at the hospital, the initiative aims to provide physical, emotional, social, and spiritual assistance to those in their final stages of life.
Internist Ferran Masanés emphasizes the importance of shifting the focus from solely treating diseases to caring for patients from beginning to end. Oncologist Albert Tuca highlights the need to identify patients in the last chapters of their lives to coordinate resources effectively. Approximately 25% of patients admitted to the hospital have limited life expectancies, with many having chronic conditions that lead to their passing.
The hospital’s approach to end-of-life care is unique in that it is integrated across all departments. Professionals from various fields are trained to provide support to patients and their families, aiming to reduce stress and improve quality of life. The hospital has even facilitated special requests, such as allowing a patient to see their pet one last time in the ICU.
Additionally, the hospital has established protocols to standardize end-of-life care practices and has created a scale to assess the complexity of palliative needs. By offering comprehensive support and addressing psychosocial and spiritual aspects, the hospital has seen improvements in the well-being and mood of patients with advanced illnesses.
The dedication of the Clínic Hospital staff to providing excellent end-of-life care has been recognized, leading to the integration of these principles into medical education programs. With the support of the La Caixa Foundation, the hospital continues to prioritize the human aspect of care in a highly technical environment, ensuring that all patients receive the level of excellence in their final moments.