Topic:

Report on EOL survey and analysis

Discussion:

Sharon McDonnell introduced two Dartmouth graduate students Brian Boulay MD, a preventive medicine Resident and Marie Claire Rosenberg RN MS PhD (cand), who are currently working with Sharon and Paul Turner to transcribe and analyze the qualitative data collected from responses (both written and verbal) to the IVR survey.  Verbal responses have been transcribed by Linda Schlott at VPQ.

Action:

Sharon, Brian, Marie Claire:  Transcribe, and analyze qualitative results of EOL survey to present at June 2006 Annual Meeting. Dr. Rob Whitley from Dartmouth will provide technical support to the qualitative analysis and planning. It is anticipated a plan will be developed that includes how to describe the next steps of qualitative research and this will allow VPQ/ExCEL to apply for funds as donors are available.

Patty and Monica(VPQ): Short written summary of survey results to be sent out to those respondents who were looking for feedback.

Opportunity to host Bill Colby:  Dates and coordination of offerings.

Discussion of possible dates to host Bill Colby in the state.  (Requires a guarantee of 3 forums within 2 days at a reduced cost of 5000.00 for the 3 talks)  The Hospice and Palliative Care Council Annual Meeting and the Central Vermont Palliative Care Conference have already lined up speakers for these events.  It was decided that we would not attempt to host Bill Colby at this time.

Patty:  Follow-up with Gwynn at the NHPCO regarding Bill Colby

Results of conversations with co-chairs regarding future of ExCEL

Patty met individually with all of the co-chairs and several of the members regarding the future of ExCEL.  Of primary concern during the conversations was whether the need for ExCEL still existed or whether other groups were filling the need.  Though the option of the Vermont Hospice and Palliative Care Council serving to meet the needs of the ExCEL group was discussed ultimately the majority of members felt that ExCEL continues to fill a void. 

ExCEL provides a forum for members to connect with EOL initiatives happening around the state, and a way for leaders within the EOL community to receive and give input into legislation.  Having a committee already in place also offers the opportunity for ExCEL to act quickly if opportunities regarding EOL quality improvement arise.

A reduced number of meetings and the use of a listserv were discussed as ways to promote this work while limiting the burden on members.  Steering Committee meetings will happen four times a year.  A listserv will include the entire ExCEL group and be an opt-in.  Meetings will include an opportunity for members to talk about what is happening in the state.

Patty:  follow-up with Helen and Bill re:  the feasibility of a listserv

Meeting Dates:

-         January 9, 2006(VMS)

-         March 6, 2006(VMS)

-         June 10, 2006 (Lake Morey)

-         October 2, 2006(VMS)

-         January 7, 2007(VMS)

Additional Updates:

Sharon discussed the need for ExCEL members to be involved with the work being done by the Department of Health regarding the electronic death certificate.  Speakers and events currently scheduled for the year were also discussed.  Madeleine noted that the legislation related to the Pain Policy was passed.

March 13, 2006:  VENS conference is scheduled – John Campbell will have details later this month

This summer at the Annual Meeting we may want someone from the Health Department to discuss the plan for electronic death records.

October 6, 2006:  CVH conference on Ethical Wills with Barry Baines (sp?) presenting

Topic:

Role of the Pain Initiative:  Discussion of the future of the initiative and how the initiative articulates with the ExCEL group

Discussion:

Judith Murphy presented on the Vermont Pain Initiative (a January update was sent out via e-mail – see attached)

The VPI is currently housed loosely with the American Cancer Society and funding for Judith’s leadership comes through her work with them.  They will continue to support her work with the VPI but Judith would like the Initiative to have a home.  It was suggested that the appropriate place for the VPI would be with the Vermont Hospice and Palliative Care Council since Judith associate member of the council already.  The members of the ExCEL Steering Committee agreed with this decision.  Judith will report on the work of the VPI to both the VHPC council, and to the ExCEL steering committee as appropriate.

The VPI will continue to work with the VMS on guidelines for pain relief.  It was suggested that VPI would also be the appropriate group to connect with the Health Department regarding work on the prescription drug registry.  The VPI will continue to lead the pharmacy effort.

Action:

Judith will contact June Burr at the Health Department re:  prescription drug registry.

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