Perspectives on Hospice and Palliative Care among the Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients in South Korea

Background/Objectives: The utilization of hospice and palliative care services has been limited yet in South Korea. The purpose of this study is to investigate perception and needs toward hospice and palliative care. Methods/Statistical Analysis: A cross-sectional design was used to examine perception and needs on hospice and palliative care. Data were collected from 19th August to 30th September in 2014. 250 family caregivers of cancer patients in South Korea were surveyed from cancer wards or hospice care units using a structured questionnaire. Chi-square tests were conducted to determine the differences in the perception and needs on hospice and palliative care according to participant's characteristics. Findings: Around 50% of the respondents replied that they had no or vague idea on hospice and palliative care services. Over 80% of the respondents perceived that hospice and palliative care is necessary and they want to use those services. Religion of the respondents, type of ward, dependence of patient, and length of caring were related to perception on Hospice and Palliative care. Type of ward, cancer stage of patient, dependence of patient, type of insurance, length of caring were related to need on those services. Those who had more awareness on hospice and palliative care were more likely to recognize the necessity of those services. Application/Improvements: These findings represent that caregivers' needs on hospice and palliative care services are high, but its perception is relatively low. To improve awareness about it, public education should be required.