Facilitators and barriers to palliative care delivery in rural China: a qualitative study of the perceptions and experiences of rural healthcare professionals.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Palliative care improves the quality of life and quality of death, yet in China, existing resources remain largely concentrated in urban areas. Limited access to palliative care exacerbates the sufferings of patients with life-threatening diseases such as cancer in rural regions.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the facilitators and barriers to palliative care delivery in rural China, based on the perceptions and experiences of rural healthcare professionals.

Methods

Between July and August 2024, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 participants from rural areas, including 18 village doctors and 7 staff from township health centers (5 doctors and 2 nurses). A thematic analysis approach was used to identify key themes and subthemes.

Res

SUBMITTER: Lin H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12288211 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature