Case Study: Health Authorities

Project Background

In South America, as in many parts of the world, the prevalence of chronic illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and cognitive decline is expected to rise significantly by 2030. These diseases result in prolonged suffering for patients and their families. Access to Palliative and End-of-Life Care (PEOLC) in the target country was limited, with significant disparities in rural versus urban regions and insufficient resources for specialized care.

 

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The Mandate

The Ministry of Public Health and Welfare Healthcare of the target country commissioned us to help them develop a governmental policy aiming to ensure that palliative care is accessible, affordable, and culturally appropriate for all individuals facing life-threatening illnesses, focusing on reducing inequities in care and improving the quality of life for patients and their loved ones. 

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Methodology

A. Data Collection and analysis

Data collection and analysis was a critical component in developing the PEOLC policy, ensuring that decisions were evidence-based and responsive to the needs of the population. Key areas of focus for data collection and analysis included:

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• Epidemiological Data:

Data on the prevalence and mortality rates of chronic illnesses (such as cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer, and organ failure). This involved collaboration with researchers, hospitals, and clinics.

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• Access to Care

Surveys and interviews with healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers to assess access to PEOLC services across different regions of the country. This included the identification of barriers to access (e.g., geographic, financial, cultural).

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• Healthcare Workforce and Infrastructure

Assess the availability of trained healthcare professionals in palliative care and related services, including evaluating the existing healthcare infrastructure, the number of hospices, and home care services available.

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• Public Awareness and Cultural Perspectives on Death

Research cultural attitudes toward death, including community beliefs, practices, and

perceptions about palliative care and end-of-life issues. 

 

B. Development of the policy

Based on other existing similar policies, we developed a policy adapted to the needs, culture, and capacity.

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C. Results Dissemination

Once the policy was completed, it was disseminated to key stakeholders through various channels to inform and guide clinical and community-based decisions.

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• Policy Briefs

We prepared accessible policy briefs summarizing the findings for policymakers, government officials, and key stakeholders in the healthcare system. These documents include key recommendations for improving access to PEOLC, enhancing training programs, and addressing cultural issues related to end-of-life care.

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• Public Awareness Campaigns

We conducted national and local campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of palliative care and end-of-life services. These campaigns focused on educating the public, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the benefits of PEOLC and the need for better access and support.

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• Workshops and Training Seminars

We organized workshops for healthcare professionals to introduce palliative care best practices, improve clinical skills, and address emotional and spiritual aspects of end-of-life care. These workshops targeted doctors, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare providers.

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• Community consultations and dialogues:

We held host community meetings across the country, especially in rural areas, to discuss the findings and gather feedback on proposed policy recommendations. These meetings provided a platform for local indigenous communities to share their unique perspectives and ensure that the policy is tailored to the needs of all populations.

 

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Impact

By focusing on lowering disparities in care and enhancing the quality of life for patients and their loved ones, the target country is the first one in South America to have enacted legislation to guarantee that palliative care is available, reasonably priced, and culturally suitable for everyone dealing with life-threatening illnesses. 

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A similar procedure could be implemented in your country: Contact us!