Navigating Challenges: Pain and Palliative Care in India

Dr. Manoj Mathew¹

Asst. Professor of Social Work

Kalinga University, Raipur (C.G)

Palliative care and pain management in India serve as vital pillars in the healthcare landscape, offering relief and solace to individuals grappling with life-limiting illnesses. However, their effective implementation faces a myriad of challenges, necessitating strategic solutions to ensure equitable access and quality service delivery. Foremost among these challenges is the pervasive lack of awareness, both within the populace and healthcare fraternity, regarding the scope and the significance of advancing medical treatment. Patient and their inmates experience increased suffering due to a lack of understanding that leads to delayed referrals and underutilization of available services.

Cultural taboos surrounding death and end-of-life discussions further complicate matters, impeding candid conversations and advance care planning. Consequently, many individuals miss out the chances to articulate their preferences and access appropriate palliative interventions tailored to their needs. Moreover, the unequal distribution of resources, with urban areas boasting better infrastructure and skilled personnel compared to rural counterparts, perpetuates disparities in care provision. Financial constraints exacerbate these discrepancies, this impedes the growth and maintenance of national hospice care programs.

Addressing these challenges demands a multifaceted approach. Increasing social awareness, mainstreaming palliative care, especially in under-served areas, and advocating for increased government funding and political support are all critical to closing the existing gaps. By navigating these challenges collaboratively, India can pave the way for a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system, ensuring that individuals facing serious illnesses receive the dignity and comfort they deserve throughout their journey.