Educational Needs in Palliative Care Among Health and Psychosocial Care Professionals in Croatia

Background: The palliative care for individuals with lifethreateningillnesses and their families involves complex,ongoing interventions that require specifi c competenciesfrom both professionals and volunteers. In Croatia, theWhite Paper of the European Association for Palliative Care(EAPC) on education and core competencies has served asa key framework for training programs. Despite its broadapplication, variations in curricula and training approachesremain, underscoring the importance of adapting educationto the specifi c needs of learners.Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the educationalneeds in palliative care among nurses, physicians,psychologists, and social workers in order to developtraining programs or modules tailored to the actual needs ofthese professionals.Methods: Qualitative research was conducted in 2024in the County of Međimurje, Croatia. Four focus groupswere organised with each group representing a differentprofession: 8 nurses, 4 psychologists, 6 social workers and 6general practitioners. All the participants worked in generalpalliative care services.The data was analysed using thematic analysis.Results: Two main themes emerged from the focus groups:1) Challenges in working with patients and families facinglife-threatening illness, and 2) Strengthening competenciesthrough education.Key areas for improvement included communication,decision-making, coping with death and bereavement, andidentifying palliative care needs. Healthcare professionalsalso highlighted pain management and self-care. Socialworkers emphasized family dynamics, while psychologistsfocused on bereavement and end-of-life support.Conclusion: The study highlights the need for structured andtargeted educational programs in palliative care, adapted tothe distinct roles and responsibilities of various professionals.Emphasis should be placed on enhancing communicationskills, addressing ethical dilemmas, and strengtheningpsychosocial competencies to ensure comprehensive andcompassionate care.