The understanding of healthcare workers on the content of palliative care policy in Shesilweni Swaziland: a qualitative study

We undertook a qualitative study design to explore the understanding of healthcare workers of the content of the palliative care policy in Swaziland. A total of 17 health workers participated in this study. The study showed that there was a lack of knowledge about palliative care, confusion as to where palliative care should be offered and by whom and the role of providing medication as a part of palliative care. Interestingly, the health workers mentioned the importance of different actors, the importance of teamwork and some perceived successes of palliative care implementation. Several challenges were reflected which included the availability of medicines, human resources, transport, infrastructure and a lack of coordination of Rural Health Motivators. Suggested strategies for improving palliative care which have been pointed out include training, improving medicine supply and organisational issues.