What is it about?
This study examines the challenges of providing paediatric palliative care (PPC) at a children's hospital in Palestine. It explores the barriers faced by healthcare professionals, families, and the healthcare system in delivering high-quality, compassionate care for children with life-limiting illnesses. Using surveys and interviews with healthcare providers, the research identifies key obstacles such as family reluctance to accept palliative care, inadequate specialised training for healthcare staff, and limited hospital resources. The study also proposes solutions, including enhanced education and training for healthcare professionals, improved communication with families, and stronger institutional support to ensure better PPC provision. By addressing these issues, the research contributes to the wider global conversation on improving palliative care services in low- and middle-income countries.
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Why is it important?
Paediatric palliative care is vital in enhancing the quality of life for children with serious illnesses and offering crucial support to their families. However, access to specialised palliative care remains limited in many low- and middle-income countries, including Palestine. This study highlights the specific challenges faced in such settings and offers practical recommendations to improve the delivery of care. By tackling cultural, educational, and systemic barriers, the research provides valuable insights to inform future policies, training initiatives, and funding allocations. The findings are particularly relevant as global healthcare efforts increasingly prioritise equitable access to palliative care for all children, regardless of their geographic or economic circumstances.
Perspectives
Writing this article has been an incredibly rewarding experience, particularly as it addresses an often-overlooked yet crucial aspect of paediatric healthcare. Exploring the barriers to paediatric palliative care in a Palestinian hospital has not only deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and families but has also reinforced my belief in the urgent need for systemic improvements. This research has provided a valuable opportunity to contribute to an important area of global health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to palliative care is often limited. I hope that this study will help raise awareness, inform policy discussions, and ultimately lead to tangible changes that improve the quality of life for children with life-limiting conditions and their families. It is my sincere hope that this article resonates with healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers, encouraging further dialogue and action towards strengthening paediatric palliative care services. If this work prompts even a small step towards better care provision, then it will have achieved its purpose.
George Ghareeb
Caritas Baby Hospital
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Perceived barriers to paediatric palliative care in a Palestinian children's hospital, International Journal of Palliative Nursing, January 2025, Mark Allen Group,
DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2025.31.1.40.
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