Table 2 Identified categories and factors
Category | Definition | Factors |
|---|---|---|
Patient Characteristics | Characteristics related to a patient’s background, culture and character traits, as well as their physical, emotional or mental state were believed to influence their ability to die at home. These were described by 8/9 participants. | 1. Patient preferences about place of death 2. Patient ability to navigate the health care system |
Physical Environment | A patient’s physical environment refers to the location (home or housing) where they will receive palliative care. Characteristics pertaining to the physical environment were believed to influence likelihood of dying at home. This was described by 8/9 participants. | 1. Environment suitability to accommodate care 2. Environment stability 3. Environment safety |
Support Network | The support network includes any individual who provided care or assistance to the patient during their end-of-life care trajectory. Having more support was equated with a greater likelihood of dying at home. This was described by 9/9 participants. | 1. Caregiver availability and ability to organize and coordinate services 2. Ability to supplement care needs with paid-caregiving services 3. Health care provider advocacy for patient needs |