Perceived Needs and Challenges of Non-State Caregivers in Palliative Care in Imphal West District Manipur: A Qualitative Study

Introduction: There is a need for assessing caregivers’ perceived needs and challenges in the private sector as their involvement in palliative care is the need of the hour, so that we can fill the gap between quality care and improved health. Aim: To explore the perceived needs and challenges of caregivers in palliative care in private sector, Imphal West district Manipur. Methods: A Qualitative study was conducted in Imphal West district in Manipur, India from December 2022 to January 2023 among Palliative care-givers and volunteers from private sector of Imphal-West district. Purposive sampling was done till theoretical saturation was reached. Data was collected using In-depth interview (IDI)/ Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with voice recordings and transcribed verbatim. Transcribed data was translated into English language and coded. Thematic analysis was done using inductive approach. Ethical approval was sought from the Research Ethics Board, RIMS, Imphal. Results: Themes identified were- physical challenges, psychological challenges, financial burden, personhood, working conditions, quality of care Conclusion: Majority of the caregivers discussed need for emotional and physical support. Financial burden, misuse during work hours, work- personal life imbalance, need for formal training were identified as challenges of the caregivers. Hence, necessary steps need to be taken to improve the overall skill and quality of life of palliative caregivers.