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State Prioritizes Pain Relief and Quality of Life
6 Feb
Summary
- Palliative care now starts at diagnosis, not just end-of-life.
- District hospitals will reserve beds for dedicated palliative care.
- Home-based care teams will provide services directly to patients.
A significant expansion of palliative care services is underway, reframing the concept beyond end-of-life support. This new program, detailed in a government resolution on February 2, 2026, ensures palliative care begins at the time of diagnosis and runs concurrently with medical treatments.
District hospitals will now dedicate four to six beds exclusively for palliative care, with sub-district hospitals providing at least two. Services will include daily outpatient clinics, counseling, physiotherapy, essential medicines like morphine, and 24/7 nursing. For the first time, home-based care teams will directly visit patients, offering crucial support.
The initiative addresses the growing burden of non-communicable diseases by focusing on long-term pain management, nutritional support, and family care. Essential medicines, including oral morphine, will be consistently available at primary health centers. Training programs will enhance healthcare workers' skills in pain management and psychological support.
To enhance accessibility, tele-consultation services and a district-level helpline will be strengthened. Public awareness campaigns aim to clarify that palliative care is about improving life quality, not abandoning treatment. This program connects various healthcare facilities into a seamless referral network, ensuring dignified and compassionate care close to home for all seriously ill patients.
