By Jonathan Koffman, Cicely Saunders Institute

In this seminar, we will critically examine many of the ‘real-time' challenges experienced, as well lessons learned, in palliative care trials. Specifically, the seminar will explore these issues under the umbrella of a recent NIHRHTA funded feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial of the AMBERcare bundle, a complex intervention, now widely used in the UK and elsewhere, designed to serve patients whose situations are clinically uncertain, deteriorating with limited scope for reversibility, and at risk of dying during their hospital stay. Among other issues, we will focus on the often beguiling nature of intervention and study eligibility criteria, problems with prognostication, ethical considerations and the characterisation of usual care in clinical trials.

About the speaker

Dr Jonathan Koffman is a Reader in Palliative Care at the Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London. His research interests include the interface between culture and ethnicity and palliative care, disadvantaged dying, and the development and evaluation of complex interventions.

About the seminar series

The Cicely Saunders Institute Open Seminar Series events are free to attend and there is no need to register.

This seminar is worth CPD (1 credit) pending from the Royal College of Physicians. 

The series aim is to optimise opportunities for local, national and international networking within palliative care and rehabilitation. We facilitate seminars to assist in improving practice, education and policy, and the integration of research and clinical endeavours.

Part of Cicely Saunders Institute turns 10, celebrating 10 years since the opening of the Cicely Saunders Institute at King's College London in 2010.