M. A. Goossensen

M. A. Goossensen is a Professor at HBO Academy, specializing in Transition, Grief & Loss. With an extensive research portfolio comprising 92 publications from 2012-2024, they serve as Principal Investigator for the iLIVE research program (2019-2023) focused on living and dying well. Their academic work spans multiple institutions and collaborations across Europe.

Goossensen's research interests center on end-of-life care, palliative care, grief and bereavement, quality of care, and compassionate communities. Their work employs qualitative empirical research methods to examine care relationships, dignity preservation, and vulnerability of care recipients. A significant portion of their recent work addresses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on end-of-life care delivery and healthcare provider wellbeing.

Analysis of their 15 most recent publications reveals a strong focus on practical implementation of end-of-life care improvements, with particular attention to volunteer programs, public engagement, and cross-cultural comparisons across European healthcare systems. Their work bridges theoretical frameworks like presence theory with practical applications in healthcare settings.

• Member of the Supervisory Board, Stichting Humanitas (2019-present)
• Member International Working Group (IWG) Death, Dying and Bereavement (2018-present)
• Member expert panel grant applications cancer patients, Nederlandse Federatie van Kankerpatiëntenorganisaties (NFK) (2016-2021)
• Member Collaborative Liverpool Best Care for the Dying person

Goossensen has secured significant research funding, most notably as Principal Investigator for the iLIVE research program. Their work demonstrates strong international collaboration, particularly evident in multi-country studies involving healthcare systems in Norway, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom. The researcher maintains active engagement with both academic and practical aspects of end-of-life care through various board memberships and working groups.

Goossensen leads the 'Transitie, Rouw & Verlies' research group at HBO Academy, which focuses on developing evidence-based approaches to support individuals and communities in navigating experiences of grief and loss. Their work emphasizes the importance of compassionate communities in enhancing end-of-life care quality.