Establishment of Integrated Hospital-Based Supportive and Palliative Services: An Experience from Iran

Abstract

Integrating supportive and palliative care into the oncology program is considered essential for effective cancer management. Despite the challenges that low- and middle-income countries such as Iran face in providing comprehensive supportive and palliative care services, continuous efforts are directed towards improving services and infrastructure. In this regard, the Iranian Cancer Control Center (MACSA) plays a fundamental role in providing supportive and palliative care with special emphasis on expanding services and ensuring equitable access for cancer patients in Iran. Through joint efforts with various organizations and hospitals, coupled with the implementation of effective leadership strategies, MACSA has tried to integrate its services into a referral hospital system in order to continuously improve and expand services and meet the multifaceted needs of patients and families affected by cancer. Indeed, MACSA's initiatives to embed supportive and palliative care within the framework of usual care in referral hospitals are critical in improving outcomes and quality of life for people battling cancer. The interdisciplinary nature of supportive and palliative care, involving a specialized team, is essential for efficient service delivery, cost-effectiveness, and overall quality of care.