What Barriers do Primary Care Physicians Face Discussing Advanced Care Planning?

Document Type

Conference Proceeding - Restricted Access

Publication Date

5-8-2026

Abstract

WHO estimates by 2050, 1 in 4 people will have to take care of a relative with cognitive and communicative impairments. As the population continues to live longer, the prevalence of dementia continues to increase. Advanced care planning (ACP)/medical DPOA can empower patients with dementia and fosters conversations about dementia-specific illness scenarios. A Michigan study surveyed patients based in three primary care teaching clinics around Metro Detroit about how prepared they were for their end of life wishes. The study found one of the most frequently reported reason patients gave for not having ACP was lack of awareness. The goal of this project is to survey primary care physicians directly to assess their perceived preparedness and barriers to provide care related to ACP and medical DPOA.

The survey was distributed to residents and faculty at 10 individual residency programs via the Michigan State College of Human Medicine statewide Family Medicine Residency Network annual survey distributions. Participation allowed investigators to assess a broad variety of topics under a single institutional review. For this 7 question survey, it included items to assess self-perceived preparedness, quality of educational experiences and barriers related to discussing ACP and DPOA in the primary care setting.

The survey was distributed via email via the Michigan State College of Human Medicine statewide Family Medicine Residency Network annual survey distributions. Data collection has been completed and data analysis is currently underway and final results will be ready the presentation date.

The study is expected to inform primary care physicians' preparedness and barriers to discussing advanced care planning. The survey will also allow a comparison of residents and attendings in urban and rural areas in Michigan within the MSU network. Finalized results and conclusions will be ready by the presentation date.

Comments

2026 Research Day Corewell Health West, Grand Rapids, MI, May 8, 2026. Abstract 1960

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