Abstract

This abstract presents a comprehensive methodology for assessing serious health-related suffering as part of a global evaluation of palliative care demand. As populations age and the burden of chronic illness increases worldwide, understanding and addressing serious health-related suffering become increasingly crucial in palliative care planning and provision. Serious health-related suffering is defined as physical, psychological, social, and existential distress experienced by individuals with life-limiting illnesses. The scope of assessment includes a wide range of dimensions, such as pain, symptom burden, emotional distress, social isolation, and spiritual distress. A conceptual framework is developed to guide the assessment of serious health-related suffering, drawing on principles of holistic care, person-centeredness, and the World Health Organization's definition of palliative care. The framework incorporates bio-psycho-social-spiritual dimensions and emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and context in understanding suffering. A set of standardized measurement tools is selected or developed to assess various dimensions of serious health-related suffering. These tools may include validated instruments for pain assessment, symptom screening, psychological distress, social support, spiritual well-being, and quality of life. Consideration is given to the cultural appropriateness, validity, reliability, and feasibility of measurement tools for use in diverse populations and settings. Data collection methods are tailored to the context of the evaluation, taking into account the availability of resources, cultural norms, and ethical considerations. Methods may include surveys, interviews, focus groups, observation, and review of medical records. Special attention is paid to ensuring the confidentiality, privacy, and informed consent of participants.