Abstract

The goal of this qualitative study was to understand the meaning of the experiences of patients and their caregivers enrolled in palliative care and facing a terminal illness in Chile. Two focus groups were conducted to understand the patients' experiences and the caregivers' experiences. Results point to the importance of finding a sense of refuge in order to cope with a terminal illness. The overarching theme of this study "belonging to something greater" emerged from the participants' experiences. The findings provide guidance to focus on further research, practice, and policy efforts in the area of palliative care in Chile. This study may serve as motivation to enhance research studies focusing on different bio-psychosocial aspects of palliative care and how these factors influence patients and/or families. © 2009 Universidad de Concepción.