Barriers and benefits of model development for integration of palliative care for cancer patients in a developing country: A qualitative study

Aim The aim of the study was to identify barriers and benefits in establishing a model for integration of palliative care of cancer patients in daily clinical practice in tertiary health institutions. Methods This was a qualitative design study using in-depth interviews with four stakeholders and focus group discussions with 19 nurse managers using purposive sampling to select the participants, utilizing interpretive paradigm method. Need was ascertained for a model that would guide nursing care for cancer patients. Results Barriers identified in relation to integrating palliative care in daily clinical practice included lack of hospital policies about palliative care activities, cultural influences, denial or rejection of diagnosis by patients, inappropriate attitude of health care workers, patients failing to keep check-up appointments and financial implications of setting up a dedicated palliative care team. Benefits of the model were twofold: hospital outcomes and patients/family outcomes. Conclusions Quality care for cancer patients/families calls for the adoption of clearly set out principles of palliative care as an integral component of daily practice. Challenges to implementation of palliative care services in hospitals can be overcome by establishing workable policies and allocating adequate funds for palliative care activities.