Children's palliative care in Ghana: a situational analysis

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Palliative Care Research
• Pediatric Oncology Support

Background:

• Significant unmet need for children's palliative care (CPC) globally, affecting over 21 million children.
• Lack of access to CPC leads to preventable suffering for children and families.
• First comprehensive situational analysis of CPC in Ghana to inform service development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current state of children's palliative care (CPC) in Ghana.
• To identify challenges and opportunities for CPC provision.
• To develop recommendations for enhancing CPC services in Ghana.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research approach.
• Conducted two focus group discussions with 21 participants.
• Held 17 in-depth interviews to understand CPC provision and challenges.

Main Results:

• Identified three key themes: CPC in Ghana, the WHO Conceptual Model, and future directions.
• Highlighted understanding of palliative care, need, funding, policy, research, education, and service provision.
• Generated recommendations for various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health and service providers.

Conclusions:

• Widespread commitment exists for developing children's palliative care (CPC) in Ghana.
• The study provides a baseline, evidence, and insights into CPC development challenges.
• Recommendations offer a roadmap for transforming CPC in Ghana, improving quality of life and reducing suffering for children and families.