Pediatric Palliative Care in Iran: Applying Regionalization of Health Care Systems

Abstract

Background: Establishing palliative care services is a priority in the health system of Iran. Considering the necessity<br />of integrating these services into the health system, this study aimed to explore the stakeholders' perceptions about the<br />provision of a conceptual framework for palliative care services for children with cancer according to the health system<br />in of Iran. Methods: The present qualitative study was conducted through in-depth semi-structured interviews held<br />with 29 participants including palliative care specialists, policy-makers, health care providers, the parents of children<br />with cancer selected through purposive sampling, between August 2016 and February 2017. Interviews continued<br />until saturation of data. All interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using MAXQDA10 software. Results:<br />The codes extracted from interviews produced the main theme “ classes of palliative care services" with the two main<br />categories “comprehensive care" including, strengthening family shelter, maintaining the child in a familiar environment,<br />achieving stability and “establishing social justice" including, easy access to services, financial relief and quality care.<br />Conclusion: Presenting a framework based on level of palliative care services, the findings of this study paves the way<br />for integrating these services into Iranian health system.