System dynamics modeling of palliative care for cancer patients in Isfahan province

The prevalence of chronic and incurable diseases is increasing in developing countries, with cancer emerging as a significant health challenge that profoundly impacts patients' physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being. Palliative care, a multidisciplinary approach, addresses these dimensions by alleviating pain and improving quality of life. It can be delivered at home or in healthcare facilities, catering to individuals at any age or stage of illness. Despite its proven effectiveness, many patients in Iran endure unnecessary suffering due to the lack of comprehensive palliative care services. This study aims to address this gap by proposing a dynamic model to predict the demand for palliative care, focusing on cancer patients in selected provinces. The model estimates both the number of individuals requiring care and those likely to access it, providing a framework for healthcare planning and resource allocation. By integrating existing data on cancer prevalence and current service availability, the model offers valuable insights to guide the development of equitable and effective palliative care programs in Iran. This approach highlights the critical need for expanding palliative care infrastructure to meet the growing demands of cancer patients and underscores its role in enhancing their overall quality of life.

کلیدواژه ها:

Palliative care ، System dynamics modeling ، Cancer ، Healthcare planning