460,000 need palliative care services amidst challenges

4 October 2024, 1:14 pm

Byamukama Alozious

As Uganda prepares to celebrate World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, thousands of citizens suffer without access to essential palliative care services.

Approximately 460,000 Ugandans require palliative care, but less than 15% receive these vital services. This staggering gap has severe consequences, leaving patients to endure unbearable pain, psychological distress, and social isolation.

Dr. Moses Muwanga, Assistant Commissioner of Palliative Care at the Ministry of Health, acknowledges the challenge. “We have made progress in integrating palliative care into our national policy, but the demand far outstrips our capacity,” Dr. Muwanga said.

Notably, palliative care is largely an outpatient service, with most patients receiving care in their homes or communities. However, Uganda’s healthcare system struggles to provide adequate support, leaving many without access to essential medications, psychological support, and social services.

Furthermore, Uganda’s palliative care efforts heavily rely on donor funding, with international partners shouldering the bulk of the financial burden. This raises concerns about sustainability and the long-term viability of palliative care services.

“Most patients require palliative care in the comfort of their own homes, but we lack the resources to provide comprehensive community-based care,” Dr. Muwanga explained. “Donor support has been crucial, but we need to explore sustainable funding models to ensure continuity of services.”

Dr. Charles Olara, Director of Curative Services at the Ministry of Health, emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges. “We must work to remove the stigma associated with palliative care and educate the public about its benefits,” Dr. Olara said.

Mark Donald Mwesiga, Executive Director of the Palliative Care Association of Uganda, echoed this sentiment. “Civil society organizations are crucial in advocating for palliative care, supporting education and training, and providing services,” Mwesiga said.

The Ministry of Health has made efforts to expand palliative care services, including increasing access to oral liquid morphine, a crucial pain management medication. However, funding constraints hinder the expansion of services and training for healthcare workers.

International partners, including the World Health Organization, offer vital support to Uganda’s palliative care efforts. The Ministry of Health remains committed to expanding palliative care services to rural areas, increasing access to pain management medicines, and building capacity for healthcare workers.

As Uganda strives to improve its palliative care services, the need for collective action becomes increasingly clear. The government, civil society organizations, and international partners must work together to ensure that all citizens receive the compassionate care they deserve.

Today, a media orientation was held to raise awareness about palliative care, highlighting the need for increased support and understanding. The event marked a crucial step towards addressing Uganda’s palliative care crisis and ensuring that hundreds of thousands of citizens no longer suffer in silence.