This paper describes the possible barriers that account for the underdevelopment of palliative care in English-speaking Caribbean region. The paper provides recommendations for the development of sustainable, efficient, high quality and culturally relevant palliative care services throughout this region.

A needs assessment study of cancer patients, their caregivers and allied health professionals was undertaken in Jamaica to identify what modifications to delivery of current formal and informal services at governmental, institutional and community levels would effectively address unmet needs.