Brazil has historical data on the first formal practices in palliative care since the 1970s. Since then, there has been growth led by the first individuals trained in the field. After the 2000s, growth accelerated, and in 2005, the Brazilian Academy of Palliative Care (ANCP) was founded, representing professionals in the field to this day.
In 2018, a significant societal victory would pave the way for what we witnessed in 2023. On that occasion, the government approved Resolution 41/2018, establishing criteria and guidelines for a national policy. From then on, there was an increase in the number of services, training courses, professionals, academic participation, research, and societal engagement. By 2022, we already had specialisation recognition for various professions, except for medicine, which remains a sub-specialty.
2023 was marked by the creation of an important civil and popular movement called the “Frente Paliativistas” and by greater coordination with the new government, in addition to the participation of the Brazilian Academy of Palliative Care. After a series of hearings, conferences, and discussions, on December 14, the government announced the approval of the public policy with its own funding. An unprecedented victory for patients, families, and professionals. Approval of the National Palliative Care Policy in Brazil 2023
According to the president of ANCP, Dr. Rodrigo Castilho, “The announcement of the launch of the National Policy on Palliative Care represents a significant step forward in improving the quality of care for all those suffering from serious health conditions in Brazil.”
The WHPCA (Worldwide Hospice and Palliative Care Alliance) played a significant role in the approval of Resolution 41 in 2018. In addition to the initiatives of the Global Atlas, WHPCA participated in the Brazilian Congress of Palliative Care in 2022 and supported various efforts for development alongside the ANCP (Brazilian Academy of Palliative Care).
From now on, the phase of implementation, review, and dissemination of the policy by authorities begins. We hope that palliative care continues to expand worldwide, especially in low and middle-income countries, where the demand is significant.
Congratulations! In Chile, the Law of universal palliative care was aproved by the Government and congress in october 2021. Josefina Rossetti, sociologist, Ph.D