Nagaland
Proposal to set up pilot palliative care projects in Nagaland
DIMAPUR — With the aim of enhancing the quality of palliative care services in the region, a proposal has been made to initiate a pilot palliative care project in Kohima and Dimapur, in collaboration with Pallium India. The proposal is expected to be formally submitted for consideration.
This information was disclosed during a meeting of prominent figures in palliative care, including Gilly Burn from Palliative Care Nurse and the director of Cancer Relief India, and Rontu Sangma, the regional facilitator for northeast and east overseeing the palliative care programme, held on October 25 in Kohima. The meeting addressed several important topics, as reported by the DIPR.
The report mentioned that the discussion revolved around nursing education in medical colleges, where Gilly Burn shared her insights. It added that her expertise in palliative care nursing and education could potentially lead to improvements in the curriculum and training of nursing students.
Recognising the paramount importance of effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients, the meeting emphasised the need for doctors and nurses to enhance their communication skills. It mentioned that empathetic and clear communication is vital in providing quality palliative care.
The report also noted that officials from the Health and Family Welfare department, including the commissioner secretary, V Kezo; principal director, Dr. Ritu Thurr; managing director of NHM, Dr. E Motsuthung Patton; SPO of palliative care Nagaland, Dr. H Sema; and retired joint director, Dr. Obangjungla, attended the meeting.
Later, the officials visited NHAK and held discussions with its managing director, Dr. Sendimeren Aonok, and other officials with a focus on improving palliative care services.