Global Perspectives of Paediatric Palliative Care in the Home in Aotearoa, New Zealand

Abstract

This chapter aims to provide an overview of paediatric palliative care (PPC) in Aotearoa, New Zealand, with specific focus on the home setting. The cultural heritage of the indigenous Māori people and subsequent arrival of European settlers has influenced the approach to life and death in this small first world country. The importance of working in partnership with Māori is the basis of providing care for all. The aim of PPC development in NZ has been to support children, young people and their families/whanau as close to home as possible. Provision of PPC is mostly provided by general paediatric services, including children’s community nurses and sometimes adult services, with some areas who have dedicated clinicians with a paediatric palliative care focus. They work in collaboration with local paediatric services supported by specialist PPC as needed. The care provided is often over many years and this may lead to end-of-life care in the home setting and subsequent grief and bereavement support.