International multiprofessional course in pediatric palliative care: benefits and challenges

Abstract

Background: The "International Paediatric Palliative Care Course" (IPPCC) was held for the second time in Germany. The goals of the course were to impart knowledge and skills, to share experience and network, and to improve multiprofessional work.

Methods: Design, content, and rationale for the course were described. Participants who had attended the first and second course were compared with respect to place of origin, demographics, and professional background. The reasons for attending the course were analysed.

Results: Health care professionals from 35 countries attended the two courses, including physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and others. The major reasons for coming were to acquire knowledge and skills and to network with other professionals. The international multiprofessional course included lectures and workshops on specific challenges in pediatric palliative care as well as practical demonstrations.

Conclusion: The IPPCC was designed to meet the challenges arising for the multiprofessional participants coming from a variety of professions, countries with diverse resources, needs, and approaches to practice. Future courses might include additional sessions on research, development of pediatric palliative care services, as well as discipline-specific sessions. Funding is necessary to specifically support professionals coming from low-income economies.