Published on: July 24, 2024

Rontu Sangma, Regional Facilitator-NE, Pallium India, writes:

Access to opioids for pain relief is one of the cornerstones of palliative care. Part of Pallium India’s regular activities is to conduct “Opioid Availability Workshops” that essentially bring together those who are vital to making opioids available and accessible to the people who need them. These include representatives from health ministries, healthcare professionals, and other bureaucrats. These workshops allow various stakeholders to better understand the processes as well as the need and then align to overcome gaps and barriers.

One such Opioid Availability workshop was held on 20^th June 2024 in Mizoram. Pallium India organised it in collaboration with the National Programme for Palliative Care (NPPC) under the National Health Mission (NHM) Mizoram. The workshop addressed critical aspects related to opioid availability, pain management, and addiction treatment.

A diverse group of individuals participated, each contributing their expertise and commitment to the cause.

Notable participants included:

• NPPC and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Nodal Officer under the National Health Mission (NHM).
• NPPC NHM District Nodal Officers and Medical Officers.
• Representatives from the Food & Drugs Administration Team, and Drug Inspectors.
• The Synod Hospital, a charitable organization.

The Workshop exemplified the commitment of stakeholders to advancing palliative care. By implementing the recommendations discussed during the workshop, we can make a significant impact on patient care and quality of life.

Let us continue to collaborate, advocate, and innovate for a more compassionate healthcare system.