What Do Social Workers Think about the Palliative Care Needs of People with Parkinson's Disease?

Abstract

Social workers are key professionals in assessing social care need and providing support. However, needs in the palliative care stage of chronic illness are not always well managed. In this study, we set out to examine the social worker's role in the delivery of palliative care to clients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Two focus groups and one individual interview were undertaken with thirteen social workers with experience of working with clients with PD in community and hospice settings. Differing perceptions of palliative care emerged: from a holistic approach to specialist care near the end of life. Negative associations of palliative care were identified. Other barriers also exist such as a lack of knowledge and experience of PD and a lack of resources, that hinder the delivery of palliative care to clients with chronic conditions. Different interpretations of palliative care affect its delivery to clients with long-term chronic conditions. Very few clients with PD are referred to specialist palliative care specifically for management of their symptoms, which must prevent holistic care. Social workers have an important, yet underdeveloped, role in identifying and addressing palliative care needs. Policies and procedures should be clarified regarding prioritisation and access for clients with chronic long-term conditions to appropriate palliative care.