RESUMO
The objective of this work was to identify the role of family physicians in the care of patients and their families in the approach to the end of life. Nowadays, with the increase in the demand for care of patients with terminal illnesses, there is also evidence on the lack of physicians with the profile and skills to fulfil this coverage deficit. A review of the literature was carried out in five databases from January 2015 to May 2018, and concluded that family doctors, based on their professional skills, ability to engage with the patients, their families, and their performance in the coordination of medical resources, are in an ideal position to attend and solve complex problems of patients at the end of life. In the present review, the specific roles of family physicians in clinical and psychosocial areas, and also the difficulties in facing the challenges in the care of patients and families undergoing the end of life process are described.