Pallative Health Care Services (Telangana)

Problem Statement

In the State of Telangana, it is estimated that around 12 to 15 patients per village are in need of Palliative Care Services.

Programme Description

The aim is to enhance the provision and access to quality services response to the life threatening conditions such as cancer and other non-cancer (Cardio Vascular, HIV, Stroke, Spinal cord injuries, neurological problems and organ failures) etc. through a three pronged strategy i.e. a) In Patient care; b) Out Patient care; c) Home based Care Services. Currently, 8 District level Health Facilities, 40 Primary Health Care Services and 500 Sub Centers are covered with Palliative Health Care Services. Palliative home care vehicles are providing services within radius of 40 kms from the identified in patient facility (DH/AH or CHC). ASHAs were trained for two days on Palliative Care and identification of the patients who are in need of Palliative Care. Once the patient is referred by ASHA, the Palliative Care Team provides required curative treatment followed by palliative care. After the death of the patient, it continues in the form of support to the family. Home based care is a vital component, where care is provided for pain control, symptom and infection management, training of caregivers in physiotherapy and management of common symptoms and supply of assistive aids and appliances.

Programme Outcomes

In the duration from April 2018 to June 2019, around 7,727 patients were provided with care and support through inpatient and outpatient care and around 16,822 Home Care Visits were provided through Home Based Care units (2,880 home visits per month).

Scalability

As the state has strengthened existing facilities and outreach vehicles for providing palliative care using NHM funds, the model has potential for scalability. 

Source : We Care Coffee Table Book - Good, Replicable and Innovative Practices 2019