Experiences of Next-of-Kin to Foreign-Born Dying Patients Cared for in Specialist Palliative Care: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Earlier studies have shown that healthcare personnel in specialized palliative care see patients with migrant backgrounds as others and that they, as providers, are unable to provide culturally competent care. Thus, these studies indicate a taken for granted perception, instead of knowledge based on experiences or scientific knowledge. The objectives of this study were to explore preferences, expectations on and experiences of specialist palliative care from next-of-kin of migrants of different origin. This study used a qualitative methodology, and the data were analyzed with systematic text condensation. The interviews were based on semi-structured interviews with seven next-of-kin. Four code groups represented the next-of kin’s experiences: The wishes and needs of the foreign-born person in a palliative phase form the care; The families’ prerequisites for, and the impact of, palliative informal caregiving; The staff working in accordance with a palliative care approach; Palliative care in a seamless care chain.