Patients’ Perceived Outcome of Specialist Palliative Care at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana

Aim: To explore the outcome of specialist palliative care services from the perspective patients at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Ghana.

Study Design: Qualitative exploratory study

Place and Duration of Study: Palliative Care Unit, Family Medicine Directorate, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, from 7th May to 28th May 2019.

Methodology: Ten (10) patients with advanced cancer were recruited from the palliative care unit using purposive sampling technique. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis done.

Results: Two (2) main themes and four (4) sub-themes were identified. Patients reported renewed sense of hope, enhanced self-dignity, improved symptom control and appreciation with care as the outcome of specialist palliative care services.

Conclusion: Palliative care improves the quality of life of patients by improving symptom control and helping them have enhanced self-dignity and sense of hope.