E-CARE as core competencies for palliative social workers: a systematic review.

Purpose: To identify the core competencies of social workers in palliative care.

Method: A systematic review of 19 high-quality studies published in English and Chinese up to February 2025 was conducted.

Results: The study identified five core competencies-Ethics, Coordination, Assessment, Resource Allocation, and Education-establishing the core competencies of social workers. They serve as interdisciplinary coordinators, communication facilitators, and educators, addressing psychosocial, emotional, and environmental challenges while navigating systemic resource constraints. The framework emphasizes ongoing assessment, resource allocation, and educational interventions, positioning social workers as system navigators and existential educators essential to compassionate, patient- and family-centered care.

Discussion: E-CARE framework equips social workers to navigate complex care ecosystems, foster team cohesion, mediate conflicts, advocate for patient autonomy, destigmatize end-of-life discussions, and promote resilience through ongoing training, particularly in resource-constrained settings.