Transition to exclusive palliative care for women with breast cancer

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the perspectives that affect the transition to exclusive palliative care for women with breast cancer. Methods: qualitative, descriptive study, carried out in a public health institution in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between December 2018 and May 2019. 28 health professionals were interviewed. Content analysis was used in the thematic modality. Results: the operational difficulties were linked to the fragmented physical structure, the late and unplanned nature of the referral, the ineffective communication, and the deficit of human resources. In general, women and family members resist referral because they do not know palliative care. There is no consensus among oncologists on the most appropriate time to stop systemic therapy for disease control. Final considerations: the perceived difficulties configure an abrupt referral, accompanied by false hopes and, often, limited to end-of-life care.