In recent years, the integration of palliative care into healthcare systems worldwide has become a pivotal topic, especially for vulnerable populations battling multiple health challenges. A new qualitative study sheds light on a particularly neglected aspect of healthcare in Nigeria, focusing on healthcare providers’ awareness, perceptions, and experiences regarding the provision of palliative care for women diagnosed with both HIV and cancer. This study, led by the researchers Idemili-Aronu, Okoli, and Jemisenia, unveils critical barriers and facilitators affecting the integration of essential palliative care services in this demographic, revealing an urgent need for systemic changes in healthcare delivery.
Palliative care aims to enhance the quality of life for patients facing serious illnesses, such as cancer and HIV, by alleviating symptoms and providing psychosocial support. Despite its importance, palliative care services remain largely underutilized in many low and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. The study emphasizes that healthcare professionals often lack adequate training and resources to effectively implement these services, which creates a significant gap in optimal patient care and support. The findings call into question the overall capacity of the Nigerian healthcare system to effectively address the complex needs of women suffering from dual diagnoses.
One of the major findings of the study highlights a pervasive lack of awareness among healthcare providers regarding the principles and practices of palliative care. Many professionals working within the Nigerian healthcare system were found to have limited understanding of how to integrate palliative care into their existing treatment protocols for HIV and cancer patients. This knowledge gap not only inhibits the quality of care provided but also diminishes the capacity of healthcare providers to advocate for the needs of their patients. The necessity for comprehensive training programs tailored to enhance knowledge and skills in palliative care thus becomes increasingly apparent.
Moreover, the study reveals that misconceptions about palliative care contribute significantly to barriers faced by healthcare providers. Many view palliative care merely as an end-of-life service, failing to recognize its potential benefits at all stages of illness. This misunderstanding leads to inadequate referrals and a reluctance to discuss palliative options with patients. The research stresses the need for educational campaigns that reshape the narrative surrounding palliative care, framing it as a vital component of comprehensive healthcare rather than a last resort.
Another critical barrier identified in the qualitative analysis is the resource limitation characteristic of the Nigerian healthcare system. Providers frequently report that scarce medical supplies, insufficient staffing, and inadequate funding hinder their ability to offer comprehensive palliative care. These systemic issues often result in healthcare workers feeling overwhelmed and unsupported in their roles, further perpetuating a cycle of neglect towards palliative care for patients with complex health needs. Addressing these infrastructural challenges must be at the forefront of any reforms aimed at improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Additionally, the study highlights significant cultural factors impacting the perception of palliative care among both providers and patients. Many healthcare workers noted that traditional beliefs and societal stigmas surrounding HIV and cancer impede honest conversations about palliative options. Providers reported discomfort in discussing prognosis and end-of-life care with patients, fearing that such discussions may lead to despair or reluctance to seek treatment. The study suggests fostering an environment where open communication about these issues is encouraged and culturally sensitive approaches are developed.
However, the qualitative study is not solely a catalogue of challenges; it also identifies potential facilitators that could enhance the integration of palliative care into the existing healthcare framework. For instance, some respondents indicated that interprofessional collaboration could serve as a bridge to facilitate better communication and resource sharing among healthcare providers. Establishing multidisciplinary teams could promote a comprehensive approach to patient care, pooling together varied expertise to address the holistic needs of women suffering from both HIV and cancer.
Another facilitator mentioned in the findings is the potential for patient advocacy groups to play a transformative role in raising awareness and pushing for policy changes. Such groups can amplify the voices of those affected by both HIV and cancer, bringing attention to the need for improved palliative care services and advocating for changes at the institutional level. Empowering these organizations and including them in discussions can foster a participatory approach to healthcare that aligns more closely with the needs of the community.
The researchers also emphasize the importance of creating supportive policy frameworks that prioritize palliative care within national health agendas. Policymakers should consider implementing guidelines and standards for palliative care that specifically address the complexities faced by patients with coexisting chronic conditions. By integrating palliative care into broader public health strategies, Nigeria can work towards creating a more equitable healthcare system that upholds the dignity and quality of life for all patients, regardless of their diagnoses.
As the study concludes, it paints a stark picture of the realities faced by healthcare providers in Nigeria, revealing both the barriers and opportunities that exist in the integration of palliative care. By addressing the highlighted gaps in awareness, education, resources, and cultural sensitivity, there is potential for significant improvement in the patient care experience for women living with HIV and cancer. The researchers advocate for a concerted effort between healthcare providers, policymakers, and patient advocacy groups to promote the understanding and implementation of palliative care across the healthcare spectrum.
The implications of this study extend beyond Nigeria, providing valuable insights into the global challenges and opportunities associated with the integration of palliative care into healthcare systems. As the world continues to grapple with an increase in patients facing multiple debilitating diseases, the lessons learned from this research serve as a reminder of the importance of holistic, compassionate care. By recognizing and addressing the unique needs of vulnerable populations, countries can move closer to achieving health equity and improving overall health outcomes for all.
This study ultimately serves as a call to action for healthcare systems worldwide, urging stakeholders to prioritize the inclusion of palliative care services. The time has come for a paradigm shift in how we approach serious illnesses—a shift that views palliative care not as a luxury but as a fundamental component of comprehensive healthcare. It is through informed action, collaboration, and advocacy that we can pave the way for more humane and effective care for those who need it most.
Subject of Research: Awareness, perceptions, and experiences of healthcare providers in integrating palliative care for women with HIV and cancer in Nigeria.
Article Title: Healthcare providers’ awareness, perceptions and experiences in integrating palliative care for women with HIV and cancer in Nigeria: a qualitative study on barriers and facilitators.
Article References: Idemili-Aronu, N., Okoli, I.A., Jemisenia, J.O. et al. Healthcare providers’ awareness, perceptions and experiences in integrating palliative care for women with HIV and cancer in Nigeria: a qualitative study on barriers and facilitators. BMC Health Serv Res (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-026-14029-9
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12913-026-14029-9
Keywords: Palliative care, HIV, cancer, Nigeria, healthcare providers, qualitative study, barriers, facilitators, health equity.
