‘Palliative medicine not just for end-of-life care’

As against the common notion that palliative care is for the terminally ill, it is important to note that it is needed from the stage of the diagnosis of the disease. It can make a huge difference to the quality of life.  

The reason we got into rural areas is for spotting skilled workers — train them and give them job opportunities. Before we look at the treatment aspects, we ascertain the requirement of the area through a survey. We do two such surveys every year. The recent survey done in Sriperumbudur was for ascertaining the non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the area. Apart from pain management and counselling, we also focus on integrating patients for medical management. Much of the work is starting from the scratch, as we help and train the caregiver in giving medication, making homemade diaper from cotton sarees and use them. 

Most often people in the rural areas don’t want to reveal the disease — be it cancer, HIV or renal disease. They are already under alternative medication and wonder what new treatment can help them. The other challenges are attrition of manpower and retaining the resources. We need strong volunteers who will reach them on time, when there is emergency, to take them to district hospitals.