Haryana is set to establish its first dedicated palliative care ward for terminally ill patients at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (PGIMS) in Rohtak. This initiative marks a significant step in providing specialized care to patients with life-limiting illnesses, focusing on pain relief and quality of life rather than curative treatment.
Details of the New Ward
The ward will be equipped with modern facilities to manage pain and other distressing symptoms. It will offer holistic support, including psychological, social, and spiritual care, to both patients and their families. The aim is to ensure that terminally ill patients spend their remaining time with dignity and minimal suffering.
Significance for Haryana
Currently, palliative care services in Haryana are limited, with most patients having to travel to other states for specialized treatment. This ward will bridge a critical gap in the state's healthcare system. It will also serve as a training center for healthcare professionals, helping to spread palliative care expertise across the region.
Key Features:
- Specialized pain management
- Psychological and emotional support
- Family counseling and bereavement care
- Training programs for doctors and nurses
The ward is expected to start operations soon, with a team of trained doctors, nurses, and counselors. This development aligns with the national push to improve palliative care access, as outlined in the National Health Policy 2017.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, a senior oncologist at PGIMS, said, 'This ward will be a game-changer for patients who have been suffering without adequate pain relief. It will also reduce the burden on tertiary care hospitals.'
The initiative has been welcomed by patient advocacy groups, who have long demanded better end-of-life care in the region. With this ward, Haryana joins a growing number of states working to integrate palliative care into mainstream healthcare.
