The project Strengthening Universal Access to Quality Healthcare for Patients with Chronic Diseases in Cambodia and Mozambique is a multi-phase initiative implemented by Douleurs Sans Frontières (DSF) with financial support from the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). It responds to the growing burden of cancer, HIV/AIDS, non-communicable diseases, and other chronic and life-limiting conditions by strengthening access to pain management and palliative care. Phase II (2023-2026) focused on expanding home- and community-based care, strengthening specialised pain management and palliative care services, improving professional capacities and access to essential medicines, and supporting the integration of patient-centred care into national health policies, regulatory frameworks, and academic curricula.
The final evaluation assessed the relevance, performance, effectiveness, partnerships, sustainability, and transferability of the programme in Cambodia and Mozambique, in line with AFD requirements and OECD-DAC evaluation criteria. It examined the extent to which the programme strengthened healthcare providers, facilities, civil society organisations, and national institutions; improved the quality and accessibility of pain management and palliative care services; contributed to policy dialogue and advocacy; and promoted national and local ownership. The evaluation also assessed gender equality, human rights, equity, environmental considerations, and the programme’s potential for scaling, replication, and continuation through a possible third phase.
The mixed-methods evaluation combined an extensive document review with 45 key informant interviews involving DSF staff, healthcare professionals, government representatives, academic institutions, civil society organisations, partner agencies, and international experts. Group discussions were conducted with caregivers, community health workers, and volunteer care workers in Cambodia and Mozambique. Quantitative surveys were completed with patients, caregivers, and students trained through the programme across two countries. Particular attention was given to the experiences of patients with cancer, HIV/AIDS, and other chronic conditions, as well as caregivers and frontline providers delivering home, community, and facility-based care.