[Barriers to the timely initiation of hospice-palliative care in the Hungarian healthcare system].

INTRODUCTION

Timely initiation of hospice-palliative care may improve the quality of life of patients with advanced, incurable disease, support family caregivers, and reduce the use of disproportionate hospital care. In Hungary, however, access to care and the organization of patient pathways may face several challenges.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to explore, based on the experiences of healthcare professionals, which factors hinder the timely initiation of hospice-palliative care in the Hungarian healthcare system.

METHOD: In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 healthcare professionals working in the Southern Great Plain region of Hungary. Participants included physicians and nurses. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Four main themes emerged: healthcare professionals' knowledge and uncertainties regarding hospice-palliative care; access- and capacity-related barriers; the role of patient pathways and information flow; and misconceptions, conceptual uncertainties, and educational needs. Based on the interviews, hospice care is often considered late, and because of its limited accessibility, it does not become a realistic care option in many cases.

DISCUSSION: The findings suggest that timely initiation is influenced by a combination of organisational, access-related, communicational, and knowledge-related barriers.

CONCLUSION

Earlier integration of hospice-palliative care requires clearer patient pathways, improved regional access, and targeted education for healthcare professionals. Orv Hetil. 2026; 167(36): 1429-1435.