"What about Your Social Worker?" Professionals and Families' Perceptions of Pediatric Palliative Care Social Work: A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

This article offers an in-depth examination of the social worker's role in pediatric palliative care, focusing on their skills and scope of intervention. This study was conducted to understand perceptions of the social worker's contributions within a multidisciplinary palliative care team. A qualitative design with healthcare professionals and families at a major hospital in Catalonia (Spain) was used to gather data. Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect insights into the social worker's diverse roles, including emotional support, family guidance, child protection, and their unique position in connecting healthcare with social, cultural, and relational factors. Findings show that social workers were perceived to be crucial in addressing psychosocial needs, promoting family autonomy, and providing guidance on resources. However, their integration into teams is often hindered by structural and hierarchical barriers. The study highlighted the importance of recognizing and reinforcing the social worker's role through policy changes that ensure their consistent involvement in all aspects of pediatric palliative care. Further studies are needed to develop strong support systems that prioritize the social and emotional needs of families in end-of-life care, ultimately aiming to enhance the quality of pediatric palliative services.