Training in pediatric palliative care in Italy: still much to do

Aim. This survey investigated the availability of training programs in pediatric palliative care (PPC) for Italian postgraduates specializing in pediatric medicine. Methods. Two questionnaires were developed: (i) a questionnaire addressed to the Directors of Italian postgraduate pediatric medicine programs (n = 37); and (ii) a survey to the postgraduate students in pediatric medicine at the University Hospitals of Padua and Udine (n = 127). Results. 14 directors participated (response rate: 37.8%). In 85.7% of cases (n = 12), lectures on PPC were offered, for a supposed maximum of 90 minutes/year. 116 students responded (response rate: 91%): they stated that, approximately 40 min/year of training on PPC was provided. In total, 37% of responders stated they attended a PPC Service during their training. The majority of responders (68.1%, n = 79) did not feel ready to care for a pediatric patient with life-limiting disease. Conclusions. Although PPC is well-recognized as part of a pediatrician's training, it receives poor attention.