Published on: December 29, 2023

Pallium India hosted a Pediatric Palliative Care Workshop on December 9th and 10th, 2023, at Child development Center (CDC) Trivandrum. The event, attended by approximately 100 people including our committed staff, proved to be a milestone in advancing the understanding and practice of pediatric palliative care. It was hosted in collaboration with Indian Academy of Pediatrics, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation and Sri Avittam Thirunal (SAT) hospital, Trivandrum.

With an impressive line-up of 4 international faculties and 8 national faculties, the program was aimed at empowering doctors, nurses and medical social officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide compassionate and effective care for pediatric patients facing life-limiting illnesses.

The collective expertise of renowned experts in the field of pediatric palliative care provided a comprehensive overview of best practices, innovative approaches and the latest advancements in the field. This diversity of perspectives enriched the discussions, offering attendees a global view of pediatric palliative care.

The event brought together professionals from various healthcare disciplines, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and a holistic approach to pediatric palliative care. The interactive sessions ensured active engagement and participation from all attendees. The topics ranged from pain management to psychosocial support, ethics, and effective communication strategies. Practical insights were shared through case studies, encouraging participants to apply their newfound knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Recognizing the importance of practical skills, the workshop included hands-on learning experiences and sessions to improve communication skills. This approach enhanced the participants’ ability to translate theoretical knowledge into tangible, patient-centred care strategies.

The success of the workshop was evident in the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from participants. Attendees expressed gratitude for the comprehensive content, the caliber of international and national faculties, and the relevance of the information presented to their daily practice. Many highlighted the practical applicability of the workshop content in their roles, emphasizing its immediate impact on their professional development.

Some participants commented that this workshop was different from the many others they have attended. They felt that it had the scientific rigor that everybody wanted but most importantly it also dealt with the humane aspects which helped them bond with one another. It gave them a chance to look within themselves and to connect with those around them in a clearer, deeper manner.

The workshop provided a platform for networking and collaborating among healthcare professionals. Attendees had the opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and establish connections that are expected to foster ongoing collaboration in the realm of pediatric palliative care.

This pediatric palliative care workshop stands as a testament to Pallium India’s commitment to advancing healthcare education and improving patient outcomes. The collaboration of international and national faculties, combined with the enthusiastic participation of our dedicated staff, volunteers and other healthcare professionals, contributed to the resounding success of the event.

As we reflect on the positive outcomes and the enhanced capabilities of our healthcare workforce, we anticipate a ripple effect that will positively impact the quality of care provided to pediatric patients facing life-limiting illness.

(Report prepared by Dr. Sangeetha Suresh, Sr. Palliative Care Physician, Pallium India.)