https://www.selleckchem.com/products/MG132.html Context Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally and a significant health burden in Kenya. Despite improved outcomes in CVD, palliative care has limited implementation for CVD in low- and middle-income countries. This may be partly due to providers' perceptions of palliative care and end-of-life decision-making for CVD patients. Objectives Our goal was to explore providers' perceptions of palliative care for CVD in Western Kenya in order to inform its implementation. Methods We conducted eight focus group discussions as well as five key informant interviews. These were conducted by moderators using structured question guides. Qualitative analysis was performed using the constant comparative method. A coding scheme was developed and agreed upon by consensus by two investigators, each of whom then independently coded each transcript. Relationships between codes were formulated and codes were grouped into distinct themes. New codes were iteratively added with successive focus group or interview until thematic saturation was reached. Results Four major themes emerged to explain the complexities of integrating of palliative care for CVD patients in Kenya (1) stigma of discussing death and dying, (2) mismatch between patient and clinician perceptions of disease severity, (3) the effects of poverty on care, and (4) challenges in training and practice environments. All clinicians expressed a need for integrating palliative care for patients with CVD. Conclusions These results suggest attainable interventions supported by local providers can help improve CVD care and quality of life for patients living with advanced heart disease in low-resource settings worldwide.As coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to impact the seriously ill and their families on a global scale, considerations given to marginalized groups amid the pandemic are essential to ensure the provision of high-quality and dignif