Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

Committee Chair

Jennifer Vann

Committee Member

Echo Osland

Subject(s)

Palliative treatment--Alabama--Huntsville--Evaluation, Palliative treatment--Methodology--Evaluation

Abstract

Palliative medicine is a rapidly growing medical specialty focused on improving the quality of life for those facing serious illnesses. There are no standardized national benchmarks for palliative medicine program evaluations and outcomes, creating challenges in evaluating palliative medicine programs effectiveness and efficiency. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project used the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) framework to evaluate the Palliative Medicine Program at Huntsville Hospital. This project aimed to evaluate the program structure and outcomes from inception in FY2013 to FY2024. A literature review and appraisal of evidence were conducted to ensure the most relevant, evidence-based methods were used to conduct program evaluation. Retrospective data were collected on hospital admissions, palliative medicine consultations, documented goals of care, hospice referrals, and provider staffing levels. Data analysis of palliative penetration rates and correlations between staffing and outcomes, such as the number of documented goals of care discussions and hospice referrals, was completed. The average day of palliative medicine consultation was trended by year. Data visualization and statistical analysis were used to reveal trends in outcomes and identify areas for improvement. Findings from the evaluation will provide actionable insights for key stakeholders for program improvement and growth, thus promoting palliative medicine provisions for seriously ill patients in North Alabama.

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Available for download on Thursday, November 04, 2027

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