ID #150 Integrating Palliative Care and Social Work into Paediatric Neuro-Oncology in Rural India: A Patient-Centred Support Model from a Low-Resource Setting

Background Children with brain and central nervous system tumours experience significant physical, psychological, social, and financial distress, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In rural India, delayed diagnosis, limited specialist access, poor symptom control, and inadequate psychosocial support contribute to treatment abandonment and reduced quality of life. This abstract describes a community-based palliative care and social work–led support model integrated into paediatric neuro-oncology care. Methods A multidisciplinary, patient-centred support model was implemented through a rural oncology program in eastern India. The model integrates palliative care, nursing, and oncology social work from diagnosis through survivorship or end-of-life care. Interventions included symptom management, psychosocial counselling, caregiver education, treatment navigation, financial guidance, home-based palliative care, and coordination with treating oncologists. Qualitative observations from clinical practice and patient–family interactions were analysed to assess feasibility and impact. Results Early integration of palliative care and social work improved symptom recognition, reduced unmanaged pain and distress, enhanced caregiver understanding of disease and treatment, and supported informed decision-making. Families reported improved communication with healthcare providers and increased adherence to treatment plans. Home-based follow-up and culturally sensitive counselling reduced feelings of isolation and helped families cope with prognostic uncertainty. The model demonstrated feasibility despite resource limitations. Conclusion Integrating palliative care, nursing, and social work into paediatric neuro-oncology is essential in LMIC and rural settings. This model highlights the critical role of non-physician healthcare professionals in improving quality of life, continuity of care, and family support. Strengthening psychosocial and palliative frameworks should be considered a core component of paediatric neuro-oncology services globally.