Empowering Lives Through Education: The Role of the Academy of Palliative Medicine in India

 

Education is a powerful tool that can transform lives. On the International Day of Education, celebrated annually on January 24th, we reflect on the importance of knowledge in shaping a brighter future for all. It is a day to recognise the pivotal role that education plays in fostering global development, eradicating poverty, promoting sustainable practices, and building a more inclusive and equitable world. It is a day to celebrate the power of learning to break down barriers and empower individuals, irrespective of their background or circumstances.

This year, let’s shine the spotlight on the Academy of Palliative Medicine (APM) in India, a constituent unit of IAPC that represents a system and structure that aims to develop, execute, and sustain competency-based specialist palliative medicine education in India.  Palliative care is integral to achieving universal health coverage, and the Indian National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 endorsed that palliative care is an essential component of health care and must be provided alongside preventive, promotive, and curative care. The APM aims to create a nationally valid qualification (Fellowship of Academy of Palliative Medicine – FAPM) that could create specialist-level employment opportunities for the existing specialists and other specialists seeking training in palliative medicine. It will also create a pathway for MD/MS/DM/MCh doctors from other clinical specialities to become palliative medicine specialists.  In India, the Academy of Palliative Medicine hopes to emerge as a beacon of standardised education dedicated to training healthcare professionals in the principles and practices of palliative medicine.

The Academy of Palliative Medicine recognises that education is the key to transforming healthcare and ensuring that palliative care reaches every corner of the country. By providing comprehensive and accessible blended education, the academy aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to deliver compassionate and holistic care to patients facing life-threatening conditions. Palliative care education helps address the gaps in understanding and the implementation of palliative practices nationwide. Educated healthcare professionals are better equipped to manage pain, alleviate suffering, and emotionally support patients and their families. Palliative care education also fosters a compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care, recognising the importance of treating the person as a whole, not just the disease. Hence, the Academy of Palliative Medicine in India offers healthcare professionals a range of educational programs, including workshops, training sessions, and certification courses.

One of the essential roles of palliative care education is dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding end-of-life care. By promoting a deeper understanding of palliative care principles, the Academy aims to break down cultural barriers and stigma associated with discussing death and dying. Education catalyses cultural change, encouraging open conversations about the importance of quality of life, dignity, and respect for every individual, regardless of their health status.

Looking Ahead

Education has the power to transform societies, and in the realm of healthcare, it plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing serious illnesses. On this International Day of Education, let us celebrate the strides made in palliative care education in India and acknowledge the Academy of Palliative Medicine’s commitment to positively impacting the lives of those in need. As we look ahead, it is essential to continue advocating for widespread access to palliative care education, ensuring that healthcare professionals across the nation are equipped to build a world where palliative care is not just a medical practice but a cornerstone of empathy, dignity, and support for those navigating the complexities of life-limiting illnesses.

About the Author:

Ms Asha Albuquerque Pai has a background in social work, management, and qualitative research.

She is the Administrative Officer of the Academy of Palliative Medicine.

She has recently submitted her PhD thesis on developing a capability-based leadership framework through appreciative inquiry.

 

 

Note: This article is a republication from the February edition of the Indian Association of Palliative Care‘s free monthly e-newsletter.

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