RGCIRC hosts HOPE’24 to highlight importance of hospice and palliative care

New Delhi: The Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC) organized HOPE’24, a daylong event ahead of World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, bringing together over 200 participants, including doctors, patients, caregivers, and social workers.

The event focused on raising awareness about the significance of hospice and palliative care in India, highlighting the need for holistic, compassionate approaches for individuals with life-limiting illnesses, especially cancer.

Palliative care emphasizes providing comfort, dignity, and support, going beyond traditional treatment methods. The interactive sessions allowed patients and caregivers to share stories, discuss the essence of palliative care, and learn about the latest advancements and resources available to them.

Speaking at the event, Mr. D. S. Negi, CEO of RGCIRC, acknowledged, “Doctors and medical support staff face numerous challenges in providing comprehensive Hospice and Palliative Care. Apart from the emotional resistance from family to forming support groups, the infrastructure in India is also lacking. There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between patient needs and healthcare provider practices to enhance the delivery of palliative care in India.”

Dr. Kinshuki Jain, Head of the Department of Pain and Palliative Care at RGCIRC, emphasized, “This is especially relevant for life-limiting illnesses eg- cancer where ACP may ensure that patients do not endure treatment that may not align with their wishes or quality of life preferences. It’s crucial to empower patients and their families to engage in these conversations early on, minimizing the occurrence of futile treatments.”

She added, “Additionally, raising awareness about palliative care and promoting the concept of living wills can facilitate important discussions about patients’ wishes and goals. Taking these conversations to the grassroots level will empower individuals to advocate for their own care preferences, ensuring their voices are heard and respected throughout their treatment journey and ensure that even death is dignified.”

HOPE’24 also featured a creative sub-event titled ‘Meri Kahani Suno,’ which received enthusiastic participation from all stakeholders, showcasing paintings, e-posters, and write-ups that reflected the emotional and personal journeys of those impacted by serious illnesses. This initiative aimed to foster a more compassionate healthcare environment that addresses not only physical symptoms but also emotional, social, and spiritual needs.