Nordic Specialist Course in Palliative Medicine: Evaluation and Impact on the Development of Palliative Medicine in the Nordic Countries: A Survey among Participants from Seven Courses 2003-2017

Abstract

<p><em><strong>Background:</strong></em> The five Nordic Associations for palliative medicine (PM) have since 2003 organized a common specialist course for six weeks in two years. <br></p><p><em><strong>Aim:</strong></em> To describe the course: participants, evaluations, impact on participants' careers, and on the development of PM in the Nordic countries. <br></p><p><em><strong>Methods:</strong></em> Information on participants taken from the course archive and national registries. A web survey sent to graduates from the courses 2003-2013 (<em>n</em> = 150) and 2013-2017 (<em>n</em> = 72). <br></p><p><em><strong>Results:</strong></em> Mean age at course start was 46.9 years; 66% were women. Mean overall evaluation score 5.7 (range 5.4-6.0, max 7.0). Survey response rate 84% (<em>n</em> = 186); 80% of respondents were working in PM, the majority as leaders, >90% engaged in teaching PM. About 40% were active in PM associations, lobbying, and guideline development. <br></p><p><em><strong>Conclusion:</strong></em> The Nordic Specialist Course in PM has had a profound impact on the participants' postcourse careers, influencing the development of PM in the Nordic countries.</p>