Team Herald
MARGAO: In a remarkable display of community health outreach, the Integrated Palliative Care Centre operating from the South Goa District Hospital (SGDH) has conducted an impressive 6,000 home visits since its inception in January 2023. These visits aim to enhance the quality of life for patients and alleviate their suffering, offering comprehensive care beyond hospital walls. The centre has registered over 2,000 individuals in need of palliative care and support in South Goa.
“The services are designed to improve the lives of those facing challenges due to ageing, disease, or disability. The team’s efforts extend to assisting patients, their families, and caregivers who are coping with chronic life-limiting conditions, including cancer,”
Dr Ira Almeida, the project director, explained.
The initiative’s success lies in its integrated approach, with the palliative care team comprising members from both the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) and Cipla Foundation.
This collaborative effort brings together a diverse group of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, counsellors, physiotherapists, an occupational therapist, and a speech therapist, all working as a unified team.
All this was highlighted during a recent program held at SGDH to observe World Palliative Care Day. Eight sarpanchas who actively support the programme were honoured with recognition awards, while 80 volunteers were acknowledged for their invaluable contributions to palliative care services.
Senior gynaecologist Dr Sincletica Rebello, emphasized the crucial role that medical professionals and the community play in providing effective palliative care.
Interestingly, while cancer patients make up 20% of those who have been registered at the Centre, the majority of patients suffer from other chronic conditions. These include kidney and liver diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and various neurological conditions.
such as dementia, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and stroke. The centre also supports individuals with motor neuron disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, spinal cord injuries, and HIV/AIDS.