What are the greatest opportunities for innovation to improve access to and quality of palliative care services to children? A qualitative interview study
File(s)
Accepted version
Author(s)
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Background
Innovation is required within children’s palliative care (CPC) to improve access to and quality of care. Existing research demonstrates a lack of access to CPC worldwide. This study aimed to explore the current opportunities for innovation within CPC from the provider’s perspective.
Methods
Global leaders in CPC were purposively sampled and invited to partake in a qualitative semi-structured interview. Data were thematically analysed using an inductive approach.
Results
Fifty-one CPC leaders from 27 countries were interviewed, encompassing clinical, managerial and patient advocacy roles. A thematic framework housing nine key themes was created, reflecting what innovation means in the context of CPC and the future of innovation. Key findings included opportunities to leverage new technologies within the sector. The importance of a clear vision and user-centred design were seen as crucial when innovating in CPC.
Conclusions
This study provides novel insights into opportunities for innovation in CPC, creating a thematic framework that brings together key themes and may help guide future innovation. We also highlight essential areas for innovation such as the use of technology. In the context of existing guidance for the delivery of CPC, leaders and policy makers can use the insights from this work to innovate and improve quality and access to CPC worldwide.
Innovation is required within children’s palliative care (CPC) to improve access to and quality of care. Existing research demonstrates a lack of access to CPC worldwide. This study aimed to explore the current opportunities for innovation within CPC from the provider’s perspective.
Methods
Global leaders in CPC were purposively sampled and invited to partake in a qualitative semi-structured interview. Data were thematically analysed using an inductive approach.
Results
Fifty-one CPC leaders from 27 countries were interviewed, encompassing clinical, managerial and patient advocacy roles. A thematic framework housing nine key themes was created, reflecting what innovation means in the context of CPC and the future of innovation. Key findings included opportunities to leverage new technologies within the sector. The importance of a clear vision and user-centred design were seen as crucial when innovating in CPC.
Conclusions
This study provides novel insights into opportunities for innovation in CPC, creating a thematic framework that brings together key themes and may help guide future innovation. We also highlight essential areas for innovation such as the use of technology. In the context of existing guidance for the delivery of CPC, leaders and policy makers can use the insights from this work to innovate and improve quality and access to CPC worldwide.
Date Issued
2025-12-01
Date Acceptance
2025-06-27
Citation
BMC Palliative Care, 2025, 24 (1)
ISSN
1472-684X
Publisher
BMC
Journal / Book Title
BMC Palliative Care
Volume
24
Issue
1
Copyright Statement
Copyright This paper is embargoed until publication. Once published the Version of Record (VoR) will be available on immediate open access.
License URL
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
ARTN 184
Date Publish Online
2025-07-02