Barriers to the development of pediatric palliative care in Italy

Abstract

Introduction. In recent years the emergence of new types of patient, clinical situations, technological frontiers and “health” objectives have changed considerably the needs of ill children, this also concerns pediatric palliative care (PPC). In Italy, despite the introduction of legislation (Law 38/2010) stipulating the right of children and families to access appropriate services for pain control and pediatric palliative care, the availability of these services is still limited. Aim. The aim of this study is to highlight, through a review of the existing data and published literature, the critical issues that obstacle the planning and development of PPC services in Italy. Results. Four main areas identified were: socio-cultural setting; types of patients and nature of diseases requiring PPC; training for PPC providers; regulatory and political issues. Conclusions. This type of analysis can provide the rational for advancing proposals and developing supportive, corrective and implementation strategies.