Perspectives and Experiences of Cancer Patients Regarding Palliative Care in UAE
Overview
This qualitative study explores the perceptions of cancer patients and caregivers regarding palliative care in the UAE, revealing a general lack of awareness and significant challenges in accessing services. Despite these barriers, participants reported positive experiences with multidisciplinary care and symptom management.
Background
The need for palliative care is increasing globally due to the rising burden of cancer and other non-communicable diseases. In the UAE, while healthcare infrastructure has improved, access to palliative care remains limited and under-researched. Understanding patient experiences in this context is crucial for enhancing service delivery and integration of palliative care within oncology.
Data Highlights
No numerical data was provided in the article.
Key Findings
Participants exhibited a general lack of initial awareness about palliative care.
Understanding of palliative care often developed only after engaging with services.
Challenges included communication difficulties and language barriers.
Cultural beliefs and family dynamics significantly influenced decision-making.
Insurance coverage played a critical role in facilitating access to palliative care.
Participants reported positive experiences with multidisciplinary care and symptom management.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should prioritize enhancing public awareness of palliative care and improve communication strategies with patients. Additionally, integrating palliative care more effectively within cancer services can help address the existing barriers to access.
Conclusion
This study highlights the importance of understanding patient experiences in palliative care to inform improvements in service delivery. Further research is needed to enhance equitable access to palliative care in the UAE.
by Khalifa Mohammad AlOlama, Salem Omar Alameri, Yasin Wissi, Waleed Mezher Alabdli, Hamad Hisham AlHammadi, Ahmed Gabr AlDhaheri, Mariam Ali AlNaqbi, Mahmoud Ahmed Elshafey, Nour Abushousha, Abdullah Humaid O. Al-Shamsi, Sarah Humaid O. Al-Shamsi, Mohammed Humaid O. Al-Shamsi, Ahmad Tariq Kalantar, Albesher Y.Alfoteih, Abdulrahman Mahmoud Basioni, Wessam Alkrad, Siddig Ibrahim Abdelwahab, Amal Al Balushi, Faryal Iqbal, Neil Arun Nijhawan, Humaid O. Al-Shamsi
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