Medical internship students perceptions of learning palliative care: a qualitative study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: With the gradual aging of the population, medical competencies for palliative care (PC) become indispensable. However, this concern is still quite absent from the training of future doctors. Objective: Therefore, the research aims to analyze the perceptions of medical internship students regarding the learning of PC. Methodology: Qualitative study, with a hermeneutic approach, conducted with two focus groups composed of students from different periods of the internship. The interviews were recorded, fully transcribed, and analyzed through Thematic Analysis. Results: The students identified significant disharmony between theoretical teaching and practical experience of the PC, as well as difficulties in clinical communication and a perception of distance in the relationship with preceptors. They reported limited participation in decision-making, scarce opportunities to perform procedures, and a lack of teaching models that integrate technique and a humanized approach. Conclusion: The findings reinforce the need for the transversality of PC in medical training, the expansion of supervised experiences, and the strengthening of communication as an essential competency.