What is the preferred place of care at the end of life for HIV/AIDS patients in countries affected by civil war and genocide: the case of Rwanda?

Abstract

The main aim of palliative care is to improve the quality of life of people facing threatening diseases by allowing them a dignified death. Therefore, it is crucial to take into account the user's preference of where to be taken care of during the terminal phase of illness. Palliative care in Rwanda is at an early phase of development; therefore, effective planning and implementation that considers the user's view on where to be taken care of is important. This study investigated where HIV/AIDS patients wanted to be cared for in the terminal phase of illness. The results form part of a larger study on met and unmet palliative care needs of people living with HIV/AIDS in selected areas in Rwanda.