Himachal Pradesh to Replicate Kerala’s Community-Based Palliative Care Model

Thiruvananthapuram: Himachal Pradesh has decided to replicate Kerala's community-based palliative care model across all its legislative constituencies. The decision follows a detailed study visit by a high-level delegation from the northern state, which included Himachal's Health Minister, Health Secretary, and National Health Mission Director.

The delegation conducted field visits in Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts, observing firsthand the operational mechanics of Kerala's palliative care system. They particularly noted the state's comprehensive approach to delivering home-based care to bed-ridden patients through a network of medical professionals and trained community volunteers.

The replication strategy involves identifying one doctor and one nurse from each constituency in Himachal Pradesh for specialised training in Kerala's methodology. The first cohort of 15 doctors and 15 nurses has completed a 10-day training program in Thiruvananthapuram. Minister presented certificates to the medical professionals during the program's concluding ceremony.

Kerala's palliative care program, operational under the Ardram Mission (Compassion Mission), has received international recognition for its effective integration of public health infrastructure and community participation. The model ensures free palliative care to patients' homes, reducing the burden on institutional healthcare facilities.