Right Time, Right Place: Mapping Service Provision for Babies, Children and Young People with Life-Limiting or Life-Threatening Conditions: A Point Prevalence Case Study
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background This paper will share a primary study which explored needs and services for babies, children, young people experiencing life-limiting or life-threatening conditions at an acute visit as reported by healthcare professionals in the field from two regions of England. Methods This mixed methods evaluation combined Phase 1; A rapid review, Phase 2; Semi structured interviews of healthcare professionals (n = 10) and Phase 3; An electronic survey employing a case study point prevalence approach following an acute visit (n = 81). Framework analysis was conducted on the qualitative data (Phases 2 and 3 respectively) and the themes, codes and categories triangulated and presented collectively. Quantitative survey data was analysed using Chi-square test and independents t tests on SPSS IBM V29 and descriptive statistics obtained. Results No literature relevant to the assessment of needs in this population was identified by the rapid review and is reported elsewhere [1]. Significant inter - regional inequalities in the availability of 24/7 end of life medical and nursing care was revealed. S ervices functioned well where expertise and leadership matched population needs. Conclusions An important primary project sharing innovative findings which highlighted inter and intra-regional inequities in the access and available provision of key palliative care services required by babies, children, and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions and their families in two large, diverse regions of England, United Kingdom. To resolve inequities in service provision leadership and training of multi professional team members in specialist competencies is recommended.
Source: Research Square
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7212909770