Table 2 Reviews that met inclusion criteria

Ahmed, et al. (2004)[21]

To determine problems and issues in accessing specialist palliative care.

Systematic review (1997-2003).

Papers from non-UK sources included.

40

9

Bager, et al. (2009)[29]

To summarises the current research evidence on cultural issues relating to ethnicity in EoL care in care homes.

Non-systematic (narrative) review.

44

N/A

Cox, et al. (2003)[22]

To consider the implications of culture on do-not-resuscitate decision-making and make recommendations for practice.

Systematic.

Papers from non-UK sources included.

34

4

Eklan, et al. (2007)[19]

To explore the qualitative literature concerning the experiences of cancer service users from minority ethnic groups.

'Critical'* review (1995-2005).

Non-EoL articles included.

25 (11 on EoL care)

7

Firth (2001)[25]

To review the literature concerning minority ethnic groups and EoL care.

Non-systematic (narrative) review (1995-2001).

Non-UK and non-EoL articles included.

406

N/A

Gunaratnam, (2006)[28]

To draw attention to the palliative care needs and experiences of elders from minority ethnic groups.

Non-systematic (narrative) review.

Papers from non-UK sources included.

53

N/A

House of Commons Health Committee (2004)[27]

To examine the extent to which the needs and wishes of patients of different ages are taken into account, including their care choices, ethnicity, cultural and spiritual beliefs.

Report of the House of Commons fourth session on palliative care.

65 (plus 20 oral statements) (8 pieces of evidence on minority ethnic groups; 4 written and 4 oral)

N/A

Johnson (2001)[26]

To review the literature on palliative care, cancer and minority ethnic communities.

Non-systematic (narrative) review (papers from a broader systematic review[47] included).

Papers from non-UK sources included.

12 (3 on EoL care)

N/A

Jones (2005)[20]

To explore the qualitative literature concerning EoL issues and ethnicity/race/diversity.

Systematic review.

Papers from non-UK sources included.

119

4

Payne, et al. (2005)[24]

To explore Chinese cultural perspectives on EoL care.

Systematic review.

Papers from non-UK sources included.

10

5

Redman, et al. (2008)[23]

To explore the evidence concerning race, ethnicity, cancer and cancer services

'Critical'* review.

31 (eight on EoL care)

7

The Department of Health (2008)[30]

To provide evidence concerning the diversity of EoL experiences.

Non-systematic (narrative) review and public consultation.

23 (5 on 'race' and 2 on 'religion and belief')

N/A

Walshe, et al. (2009)[31]

To identify whether patients with different characteristics use community palliative care services in different ways.

Systematic (1997-2008).

Papers from non-UK sources included.

48

8