Every year, millions of children around the world face life-limiting conditions, yet many of them do not have access to the palliative care services they need. According to research by the International Children’s Palliative Care Network (ICPCN), more than 21 million children need palliative care. As we look ahead, we must advocate for the inclusion of paediatric palliative care in health policies globally, ensuring that no child is left without comfort, dignity, and care.
Paediatric palliative care is an essential component of health systems, yet it remains an underserved area, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In many countries, palliative care is seen as something only for adults or those nearing the end of life. This misunderstanding has led to a lack of resources, trained healthcare professionals, and financial support for Children’s Palliative Care (CPC) services. As a result, children with chronic and terminal illnesses often suffer without the compassionate care they need to manage pain, distress, and emotional challenges.
For CPC to become a reality for all children in need, it’s essential that governments and health organizations recognise its importance and take action. This means integrating paediatric palliative care into national healthcare frameworks, training healthcare providers, and ensuring that essential pain relief medications are available and accessible.
By championing the inclusion of paediatric palliative care as an essential component of health care, including universal health coverage (UHC) and Primary Health care (PHC), we can ensure that every child has access to quality, compassionate care.
In addition to advocacy at the policy level, there are many ways that individuals and organisations can support the expansion of paediatric palliative care. This includes:
- Raising awareness: Sharing information about the importance of CPC and dispelling myths around its purpose.
- Supporting charitable organisations: Contributing to programmes that fund paediatric palliative care services in underserved areas.
- Partnering with healthcare systems: Advocating for the integration of palliative care training for healthcare workers, especially in rural and resource-limited settings.
By coming together to advocate for CPC, we can build a future where every child, regardless of where they live or their health condition, receives the compassionate care they deserve.
The need for paediatric palliative care is urgent, and the time to act is now. By raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and supporting programmes that provide care for children with life-limiting illnesses, we can ensure that no child is denied the opportunity to live with dignity, comfort, and peace. Let’s work together to build a future where CPC is accessible to all children, everywhere.
