ABSTRACT
For clinicians involved in improving healthcare for patients with allergic and immunologic conditions, advocacy on a broader level through public outreach is key to advancing value-based care. In this article, we provide a toolkit of strategies and resources that can be used to raise public awareness of important issues through various mediums, including podcasts and social media, newspapers, testimonies, presentations, and interviews. A simple approach to effective media interactions is described using the acronym "RATIO", which stands for Research, Audience, Targeted topic, Interview rephrasing, and Optimism. The acronym also reminds the person who is presenting information that only a fraction of what is discussed will be recalled, and an even smaller proportion will be implemented. Key points should be made early. Examples of key talking points are provided for selected topics, including food allergy, anaphylaxis, asthma, rhinitis, and broader healthcare advocacy.
ABSTRACT
Dementia is one of the leading causes of death in the US. Approximately, 6 million elderly people in the US had dementia in 2020. Advanced dementia is complicated by multiple problems that can lead to distress in both the patient and their caregivers. With the increase in aging population, physicians will be expected to take care of patients with dementia. Palliative and hospice care can play an important part in helping to alleviate physical symptoms as well as address non-medical/spiritual needs. In this review article, we highlight the patient-centered approach to treat symptoms and patient's needs to improve their quality of life. We discuss the most important and persistent challenges in advanced dementia with the aim to provide excellent care at the end-of-life and caregiver experience. Data were identified by using PubMed, EBSCO, and Google Scholar databases (January 1980 to present) using the following search terms: dementia, palliative care, advanced dementia, and hospice care. The search was repeated using geriatrics, end-oflife, decision making, advanced care, capacity evaluation, nutrition, infections, pain management, dyspnea, delirium, de-prescribing, and spiritual care. Additional review of literature was undertaken using relevant references of identified articles. There are many missed opportunities to improve care in this vulnerable patient population that when addressed can lead to peaceful and dignified death.
