Veterans' Preferences for Life-Sustaining Treatment
Author Information
Author(s): Makaroun Lena, Li Yaming, Mor Maria, Morris Stephen, Rosland Ann-Marie, Rosen Tony, Kutney-Lee Ann, Thorpe Carolyn
Primary Institution: VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System
Hypothesis
What factors are associated with the completion of life-sustaining treatment documentation among veterans?
Conclusion
Life-sustaining treatment documentation is often completed close to death and is influenced by prior healthcare utilization.
Supporting Evidence
- 28% of veterans completed a life-sustaining treatment document.
- LST documentation occurred a median of 142 days before death.
- 34% of LSTs were completed by a surrogate.
- Older age, higher comorbidity, and frailty were associated with LST completion.
- Being unmarried and having a child as next of kin were associated with LST completion among veterans without inpatient stays.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many veterans filled out their treatment preferences before they died, and found that those who used more healthcare services were more likely to do so.
Methodology
Retrospective cohort study using VHA EHR and Medicare claims data with multivariable logistic regression.
Limitations
The study may not fully capture preferences in outpatient settings.
Participant Demographics
Veterans aged ≥65 years who died in 2021.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website