[ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH NEEDS FOR PALLIATIVE CARE IN SPLITDALMATIA COUNTY]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Geriatrics
• Oncology

Background:

• Palliative care enhances quality of life for patients with life-limiting illnesses.
• Assessing palliative care needs is crucial for resource allocation and service planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the demand for palliative care services in Split-Dalmatia County.
• To identify demographic and diagnostic factors influencing palliative care needs.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of mortality data from Split-Dalmatia County in 2012.
• Application of specific criteria to identify individuals requiring palliative care.
• Statistical analysis of demographic data, causes of death, and place of death.

Main Results:

• Approximately 50% of deceased individuals in 2012 required palliative care.
• Males (p<0.001) and individuals aged 65-79 (40.2%) and ≥80 (36%) were most frequently in need.
• Neoplasms (69%) were the leading diagnosis, with deaths occurring equally at home (46.8%) and in hospitals (46%).
• Patients living >60 minutes from a hospital were more likely to die at home (p<0.001).
• An estimated 35 hospital beds per day are needed for palliative care patients.

Conclusions:

• There is a substantial and widespread need for palliative care in Split-Dalmatia County.
• Palliative care services are required for all age groups, genders, and geographic locations within the county.
• Findings support the expansion of palliative care infrastructure and services to meet identified needs.