Research in developmental disabilities
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Physicians' identification of the need for palliative care in people with intellectual disabilities.
A growing number of people with intellectual disabilities (ID) is suffering from life-threatening chronic illnesses and is therefore in need for palliative care. ⋯ Distinctive for a population of people with ID are the frequent diagnostic uncertainty in people with ID, the patients' communicational abilities and the reliance of ID-physicians on close proxies. We argue for a proactive attitude of physicians regarding care and support of people with ID with palliative care needs.