Family as the primary caregiver: palliative care in the Golan Heights

Abstract

Palliative care is recognised by the WHO as an essential component of care for the seriously ill. Geographically isolated and historically underserved communities, particularly from ethnic minority groups, face obstacles in obtaining adequate palliative care. This case involves the care of a 26-year-old Druze man suffering from a terminal cancer in his Golan Heights village. Local physicians were able to train the patient's father in a palliative care capacity. In the effort of capacity building, the physician and palliative care team also aided the aggrieved family in the process of coping. Robust support networks, both at state and community levels, facilitated the care provided. In showcasing the role of the national and local safety net in activating and building community resources to address a dearth of palliative care services in disadvantaged regions, this case models a potentially effective community-based approach to palliative care for patients from underserved populations.

Global Health Education and Advocacy: Using BMJ Case Reports to Tackle the Social Determinants of Health

“…Global Health case reports also illustrate the extent to which health professionals work with families to improve health and quality of life. Richman et al ( 78 ) report the case of a man diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor. The patient lived in a remote village and belonged to an ethnic minority—both factors limiting access to quality palliative care.…”