Palliative care needs and preferences of female patients and their caregivers in Ethiopia: A rapid program evaluation in Addis Ababa and Sidama zone

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248738
• Publication Date: 2021-04-22T19:59:13Z
• Authors: Mirgissa Kaba; Marlieke de Fouw; Kalkidan Solomon ...; Ephrem Abathun; Alexander Arnold ...; Jogchum Jan Beltman
• Keywords: Thematic Analysis

Introduction In Ethiopia there is an extensive unmet need for palliative care, while the burden of non-communicable diseases and cancer increasing. This study aimed to explore care needs preferences patients, their caregivers, perspective stakeholders on service provision in programs women, mostly affected by cervical breast cancer. Methods A rapid program evaluation using a qualitative approach was conducted three home-based Addis Ababa Yirgalem town, Ethiopia. Female patients enrolled programs, primary caregivers were interviewed needs, provision. We explored views purposely selected organization its challenges. Audio-taped data transcribed verbatim translated into English inductive thematic analysis applied. Descriptive analyses used label physical signs symptoms outcome scale score. Results total 77 interviews (34 12 15 voluntary 16 stakeholders) conducted. The main complaints moderate severe pain (70.6%), followed anorexia (50.0%), insomnia, nausea vomiting (41.2%). Social interaction daily activities hampered patients’ condition. Both reported that focus most treatment symptoms, with limited psychosocial, emotional, spiritual economic support. Lack organizational structures policy directions limit collaboration between availability holistic services. Conclusions Although female appreciated support provided, existing services did not cover all needs. Pain management other needed supports lacking. Multi-sectorial active involvement community-based improve quality access