Development of Authorized Translation of “WHO Definition of Palliative Care”: Collaboration of 18 Academic Medical Societies in Japan Using Delphi Method

ABSTRACT

Objective: To create an authorized translation of the “definition of palliative care” according to WHO using the Delphi method. Methods: Through a palliative care association council (hereafter referred to as the “council”) composed of 18 academic organizations, this research aimed to create an authorized translation draft and develop a consensus for it using the Delphi method according to 54 experts, three from each organization. The main clause and nine subordinate clauses of the document were evaluated from “not at all appropriate” (1 point) to “completely appropriate” (9 points). The standard for consensus was if the median was 7 points or above, or if there was a difference of 5 points or less between the maximum and minimum. The council created an authorized translation in light of the consensus status. Results: Three rounds of the Delphi method were performed; the response rates were 100%, 93%, and 91% respectively. As 30% of the clauses reached the predetermined standard for consensus, the council discussed and considered, established an authorized translation draft, and made a decision upon public comment from each academic organization. Conclusion: Academic organizations associated with palliative care jointly created an authorized translation for the “definition of palliative care” according to WHO.