St. Joseph Palliative Care Centre, Chumoukemida commemorated Palliative Day on October 14, by highlighting on the significance of palliative care, especially in the context of the Naga society. The day was also observed at Impur Christian Hospital (ICH).
On the occasion, head of the Palliative Care Department at CIHSR, Nagaland, Dr. Tony Vikas Bishwas emphasized the vital difference between home care and professional palliative care. According to Dr. Bishwas, patients in palliative care facilities not only receive professional medical attention but also have access to free medicines.
Such provisions ensure patients experience a quality of life and a dignified end, debunking the notion that home was the only best place for care.
St. Joseph Palliative Care Centre, currently provides shelter and care to over 20 individuals from diverse backgrounds, both medically and age-wise. In a candid discussion with Nagaland Post, it was revealed that services offered by the facility, including 24/7 care by trained palliative health workers, free of charge.
Secretary for Health Commission, Diocese of Kohima, Father Chacko, spoke about the facility’s open-door policy. He touched upon the cultural hesitancy in Naga society regarding accepting palliative care, stemming from sentimental attachments and denial of severe health conditions. However, Father Chacko added that over time, individuals gain a renewed sense of acceptance and value for life once they join the palliative care centre. He emphasized the facility’s commitment to maintaining the confidentiality of patients, considering the vulnerability of those in despair.
MD in Palliative Medicine, currently on deputation to Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK), Dr. Kikato V Chishi, addressed the subject of “end of life care”. Dr. Chishi described palliative care as a holistic approach to treatment.
He pointed out the strategic location of the centre in Chumu, highlighting that Dimapur has long been a medical hub for the region. The proximity and accessibility of the centre make it an attractive option for many. Speaking on the broader medical context, Dr. Chishi said while research often centers on the quality of life, the importance of a dignified end amidst long terminal illnesses is often overlooked. Referring to a troubling statistic that ranks India among challenging places, he stressed the necessity of palliative care, especially for the underprivileged Nagas, and emphasized bridging the gaps in cohesive care.
ICH: Impur Christian Hospital (ICH) also observed World Hospice and Palliative Care day on October 14 by hosting a special formal programme under the theme: “Compassionate Communities: Together for Palliative Care” followed by a free medical check-up for the elderly people. The speaker at the programme was Shilula Imchen, associate pastor women, Mokokchung Town Baptist Arogo.
She opined that, compassion of the communities play a vital role in the care for the sick along with the medication. She therefore said every community should develop the compassionate heart to succinctly deal with this palliative care. She also praised ICH for taking up the palliative care programme.
Altogether 25 people have been given free medical check-up.