How did the COVID-19 Pandemic Affect Palliative Care Social Work Services? A Scoping Review

Abstract The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) generated life-defining challenges on a global level, affecting healthcare professionals, who faced the same imminent public health threat as patients and families. Reduced face-to-face contact, wearing personal protective equipment and enforcing visitor restrictions generated moral distress in healthcare professionals, unable to provide holistic care. This scoping review explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on palliative care social workers (PCSWs). PubMED, CINAHL and PsycINFO were systematically searched. Empirical studies and reflective articles about palliative care social work during the pandemic were screened. Data extraction used Arksey and O’Malley’s framework. Thematic analysis was underpinned by Braun and Clarke for identifying, analysing and reporting patterns. From 706 citations retrieved, 125 were selected for full-text review and 32 were included in the scoping review. Thematic analysis revealed three themes: (i) moral distress, (ii) transitioning and (iii) inequality. Implementing visitor restrictions caused moral distress and raised questions about their justification. Not being present at the time of death generated feelings of anger among bereaved family members. Virtual communication replaced face-to-face contact, yet improved access to Telehealth. Inequalities were illuminated and PCSWs advocated for disadvantaged populations, worked creatively to minimise suffering or stigma and supported peers. SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19) generated life-defining challenges on a global level, which affected the working conditions of all healthcare professionals, who faced the same imminent public health threat as patients and families. Working from home, job loss and requiring access to the Internet illuminated demographic inequalities, poverty, isolation, housing issues and increased financial burdens. Government restrictions around travel bans, social distancing and funerals emphasised feelings of loneliness and isolation. A 600 per cent increase in the number of deaths generated extensive waiting lists for bereavement services and unmet needs. Reduced face-to-face contact, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and enforcing visitor restrictions generated moral distress and powerlessness in health and social care professionals who felt unable to provide holistic care. Although telehealth minimised the risk of infection, alleviated transport issues and improved access to health care