Children's palliative care in Ghana: a situational analysis

There is a growing recognition of the worldwide unmet need for children's palliative care (CPC) with over 21 million children globally needing access to palliative care. This unmet need means that children are subject to needless suffering and that their families are lacking the care and support that they need. Thus, the first ever CPC situational analysis was undertaken in Ghana to assess the need for CPC, along with current provision in Ghana, in order to make recommendations for service development.

A qualitative approach was used. Two focus group discussions were held with 21 participants, followed by 17 interviews with a view to understanding the current situation for CPC in Ghana, the challenges for provision and to make recommendations for future developments.

Three overall themes, with associated sub-themes were identified: (1) CPC in Ghana, which included: understanding of palliative care; the background; need for CPC; and funding. (2) The WHO Conceptual model, which included: empowered communities; health policy; research; access to medicines; education and training; and service provision. (3) Going Forward, which included: challenges, commitment, roles and recommendations. Recommendations are aimed at: the Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Services; hospitals and service providers; education providers; researchers; and donors.

There was widespread commitment for the development of CPC, with this study providing a baseline for CPC development, building the evidence base and providing insight into CPC development and it's challenges within Ghana. The recommendations provide a roadmap for CPC development aligned with Ghana's five-year palliative care strategy. Implementing these recommendations can transform CPC in Ghana, ensuring that all children in need, and their families, receive high-quality care that improves quality of life and reduces suffering.