The importance of palliative care in India cannot be understated. The need for comprehensive end-of-life care becomes increasingly pressing as the nation grapples with an ever-growing population and an ageing demographic. In this blog, we will explore the significance of palliative care, the challenges faced in India, and the impact it can have on patients and their families. We will also touch upon the crucial role of organisations like Artha Senior Care in providing quality palliative care services. Artha provides a great support system within luxury settings and a holistic care environment for those seeking Palliative care in Gurgaon, Delhi NCR or those living around Gurgaon making it easier for them to visit and stay at Artha.
With a population of over 1.3 billion, India faces unique healthcare challenges. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that roughly 1 million people in India require palliative care annually. Yet, according to a 2021 report from the Indian Association of Palliative Care, only 2% of those in need have access to such services.
“The lack of access to palliative care denies people the right to live and die with dignity.” – Dr M.R. Rajagopal, Founder, Pallium India.
Palliative Care
Palliative care is an interdisciplinary approach that aims to alleviate suffering and enhance the quality of life for patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialised care extends beyond physical pain management, encompassing emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of a patient’s well-being. It is essential to comprehensive healthcare, enabling patients to live their final days with dignity, comfort, and peace.
The barriers to palliative care in India are manifold, ranging from a lack of awareness and inadequate healthcare infrastructure to limited funding and insufficient training for healthcare professionals. Furthermore, the cultural stigma surrounding death and dying often prevents open discussions about palliative care options. To overcome these challenges, concerted efforts by the government, healthcare providers, and civil society are required.
“A country’s greatness is measured by how it treats its weakest members.” – Mahatma Gandhi.
India has taken significant strides in addressing the palliative care gap in recent years. The National Programme for Palliative Care (NPPC), launched in 2012, aims to integrate palliative care services within the existing healthcare system. Additionally, the Indian government has revised the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act to improve access to opioid medications for pain relief.
Despite these initiatives, much work still needs to be done. The Indian Journal of Palliative Care reports that only 1% of the country’s healthcare facilities provide specialised palliative care services. This disparity highlights the urgent need for increased investment, robust training programmes, and greater public awareness.
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela.
To bridge the gap in palliative care provision, organisations like Artha Senior Care play a pivotal role. Artha, a Pune-based organisation, offers holistic care for seniors and their families, including palliative care services. By adopting a person-centred approach, Artha ensures that each patient’s needs, preferences, and values are respected and catered to.
With a dedicated team of professionals, including doctors, nurses, and counsellors, Artha Senior Care provides compassionate, high-quality care to those facing life-limiting illnesses. They offer various services, such as pain management, symptom control, emotional support, and spiritual care, all aimed at improving the patient’s quality of life and easing the burden on their families.
In conclusion, the need for palliative care in India is pressing and undeniable. While strides have been made, there is still much work to ensure every individual has access to this essential aspect of healthcare. By raising awareness, investing in infrastructure, and providing quality training for healthcare professionals, India can make great strides in providing palliative care to those in need. The role of organisations like Artha Senior Care cannot be understated, as they play a crucial part in supplementing government efforts and driving forward the palliative care movement in India.
“Every human being has the right to die with dignity and without pain.” – Dr B.R. Ambedkar.
By working together, government agencies, healthcare providers, and non-governmental organisations can create a strong network of palliative care services throughout the country. This collaborative approach will raise awareness about the importance of palliative care and ensure that patients and their families receive the support, comfort, and dignity they deserve during their most vulnerable moments.
Our collective responsibility is to ensure that palliative care becomes an integral part of the Indian healthcare system. Through determination, innovation, and compassion, we can build a future where everyone can access quality end-of-life care and no one is left to suffer in silence.
