Palliative care in Primary Care: production of a cartographic body

Abstract

This study analyzes the possibilities and barriers to implementing palliative care (PC) in Primary Health Care (PHC), using a cartographic qualitative methodology. Conducted in a Basic Health Unit (BHU) in large municipality in Paraná, Brazil, the study adopted the “guide-user” strategy to follow real-life care trajectories. Data were recorded in a Cartographic Diary. Results reveal structural challenges such as limited resources, fragmented healthcare networks, and staff overload, alongside subjective factors influencing professional practices and user access to PC. The lack of articulation across care levels and narrow perceptions of PHC’s role in PC delivery compromise care continuity. However, micro-political practices and singular arrangements highlight PHC’s potential as a space for continuous and humanized care. The study concludes that rethinking palliative care policies and practices is urgent, taking into account the subjectivities and living networks shaped in everyday healthcare services.