Hospice and Palliative Care Networks in Lower Saxony: Results of an Online Survey and Analysis

Objective The status of local hospice and palliative care networks (HPCN) in Lower Saxony is explored and analysed. Methods In February 2022, an online survey of local HPCN in Lower Saxony was conducted using SoSciSurvey. Content of the survey were: a) network organisation and structure, b) themes and fields of activity, c) challenges and support needs. The invitation link was sent to all registered palliative care support centres (n=33) and specialised outpatient palliative care teams (n=43) in Lower Saxony. Data were analysed descriptively in Microsoft Excel 2016. Results A total of 34 HPCN from 33 districts and cities participated, of which 29 were sponsors of a palliative care team. The most frequent content regarding networking were the topics of specialised outpatient palliative care (n= 32), outpatient hospice care (n=22) and care in nursing facilities (n =22). Conclusion HPCN in Lower Saxony are diverse and closely linked to outpatient structures of hospice services and palliative care teams.