Palliative care needs among patients with advanced illnesses in Bhutan

BMC Palliative Care, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12904-020-00697-9 · Published: January 8, 2021

Simple Explanation

Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life for patients and their families facing advanced illnesses by preventing and relieving suffering. This study was conducted in Bhutan, a Himalayan Kingdom where palliative care is an emerging concept. The research aimed to understand the palliative care needs of patients with advanced illnesses to help create a suitable palliative care model for Bhutan.

Study Duration

May to July 2019

Participants

70 patients with advanced illnesses

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional descriptive study

Key Findings

1
Patients with advanced illnesses reported low to moderate scores in physical, role, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning.
2
Participants experienced moderate to high symptom burden, including fatigue, pain, insomnia, loss of appetite, and financial difficulties.
3
The study highlighted the need for a public health-focused palliative care model adapted to the specific social, cultural, and economic context of Bhutan.

Research Summary

This study assessed the palliative care needs of patients with advanced illnesses in Bhutan, revealing significant symptom burden and impaired functioning. The findings emphasize the importance of developing a contextually appropriate palliative care model in Bhutan, considering its unique social, cultural, and economic factors. The study suggests integrating palliative care into the existing healthcare system, focusing on public health strategies to improve access and manage healthcare costs.

Practical Implications

Informing Policy Development

The findings can guide the development of palliative care policies and programs tailored to the specific needs of the Bhutanese population.

Improving Symptom Management

The study highlights the need to improve symptom management, particularly pain, through better access to medications and education for healthcare providers.

Enhancing Public Awareness

Raising public awareness about palliative care is crucial to address misinformation and improve acceptance, especially among marginalized and vulnerable groups.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size limited statistical comparisons.
2
Use of only EORTC-QLQ-30 may have limited understanding of other needs.
3
Difficulties in data collection due to unforeseen events and participant health status.

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