The development of an advanced diploma program for palliative care leaders in Chile

Abstract

Context: The majority of people with serious health-related suffering in low- and middle-income countries lack access to palliative care (PC). Increased access to PC education is greatly needed. Objectives: This paper describes the process to adapt an advanced PC training course for a Chilean context. Methods: A joint team of intercultural PC educators from the US and Chile conducted a series of key informant interviews and a target audience survey to iteratively design a PC training course in Chile. Results: Eight key informant interviews identified a strong need for formal PC education pathways, confirmed the five central learning domains, and helped to identify potential course sub-topics. A target audience survey of 59 PC providers from across Chile confirmed a strong desire to participate in such a course. Conclusion: Our team of intercultural PC educators adapted an advanced PC course to the unique context of Chilean providers.