A narrative on the effects of COVID 19 on palliative care in Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Palliative care is a crucial service for people suffering from chronic and terminal illnesses as well as their families. The Covid-19 pandemic overwhelmed health systems the world over and disrupted health care inclusive of palliative care. This qualitative study sought to investigate the effects of Covid-19 on palliative care in Harare, Zimbabwe. A phenomenological design was used and a total of 16 participants were purposively selected from 4 health facilities. The study revealed that the Covid-19 pandemic had disrupted palliative care provision in Zimbabwe. In addition, palliative care facilities were unprepared for the transition that would be needed to provide palliative care virtually in response to Covid-19. The study also revealed that, professionals and home caregivers were overwhelmed and at the same time patients deteriorated in mental and in some cases physical wellbeing. Attempts to implement virtual strategies to continue providing palliative care were evidenced but these were hindered by resource limitations and bureaucracy within healthcare facilities. Attempts to implement virtual strategies to continue providing palliative care were evidenced but these were hindered by resource limitations and bureaucracy within healthcare facilities. The study recommends drafting of virtual palliative care policies and strategies, training of professionals to be competent in these and facilities to safeguard and promote psychological wellbeing of palliative care professionals. The study recommends drafting of virtual palliative care policies and strategies, training of professionals to be competent in these and facilities to safeguard and promote psychological wellbeing of palliative care professionals.