Comparison of the perception of palliative care by healthcare professionals in some countries around the world: a systematic review.

Background: The global need for palliative care (PC) is increasing, especially as the population ages. The diagnosis of a life-threatening illness triggers numerous decisions by healthcare professionals (HCPs). How these professionals understand and deal with PC influences the quantity and quality of care provided to patients. This systematic review aimed to compare perceptions of PC among HCPs around the world.

Methods: The databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, LILACS, and EBSCO) were searched systematically. Articles reporting on the perception of HCPs, published between January 2012 and December 2022, were included. Texts that reported the perceptions of family members and patients were excluded to avoid the risk of bias. Those included were organized by country/region and continent for later analysis.

Results: Of the 2,063 articles initially retrieved 32 were included and provided relevant information from four continents (America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania). Most of this was done through interviews and questionnaires. All HCPs consulted in the studies recognized the importance of PC. The perception of these professionals was influenced by cultural factors (such as religion), difficulties perceived in each country/region (such as inadequate knowledge, conceptual confusion, etc.), diseases, and the age range of patients served. The acceptance and preparation of professionals to deal with this topic in their routine also influenced their perceptions of HCPs. The limitation of this research is the lack of eligible studies from Africa and the small number of participants in some studies.

Conclusions: It can be concluded that HCPs' perceptions of PC are similar, regardless of their country of origin.