Focus on pain management, dignity and holistic care
Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, OCT 10 (NPN): World Hospice and Palliative Care Day 2026 was observed across Nagaland on October 10 under the theme “Pain Management: An Essential Part of Palliative Care.”
St. Joseph Pain and Palliative Care Centre, Chümoukedima, observed World Hospice and Palliative Care Day on Saturday, highlighting the importance of pain management, compassionate care and dignity for patients living with serious and life limiting illnesses.
The programme was chaired by O. Lossi Koso, with ADC and Executive Officer, Chümoukedima Town Council (CTC), T. Lemlila Sangtam, as special guest. Invocation was pronounced by James Vizo, spiritual counsellor and social activist, while benediction was delivered by Rev. Fr. Sunny, professor at St. Joseph University (SJU). Students of the Education Department, third semester, SJU, presented a song.
Addressing the gathering, Sangtam appreciated the Diocese of Nagaland for establishing the centre to extend care and compassion to patients and families. Referring to Florence Nightingale and Mother Teresa, she commended the dedication of those working to relieve suffering and assured the centre of district administration’s support. Stressing the global theme of pain management, she said no one should endure preventable pain due to lack of access to appropriate care and medication. She emphasised that palliative care was not about giving up but about helping patients live as fully as possible, noting that comfort, dignity and pain relief should be treated as human rights.
Basu Damani, president of Lions Club Dimapur and state vice president of BJP Nagaland, said healthcare extended beyond curing diseases to relieving suffering, preserving dignity and providing comfort. Recalling his association with charitable healthcare institutions, he appreciated the centre’s efforts and announced donation of a new television.
The programme also witnessed donations of two lockers, one adjustable bed and two hospital beds by Rotary Club Dimapur. Members of BJP Mahila Morcha attended the event. A&D Company, Dimapur, undertook solarisation of the centre free of cost with support from SELCO Foundation, Bengaluru, whose representatives were present.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. John Murry stressed the need to address comprehensive patient needs-physical, psychological, social and spiritual. He called for improved medical education on chronic pain, removal of barriers to essential medicines and coordinated community support.
In a post programme interaction with Nagaland Post, Rev. Fr. Chacko Karinthayil said palliative care aimed to improve overall quality of life by addressing not only physical pain but also psychological, social and spiritual suffering. He underlined the importance of institutional and community support in reducing isolation and helping patients cope.
Currently, the centre is caring for 14 patients. Since inception, it has provided palliative care to 123 patients, home based care to 175, end of life care to 33 and day care services to eight individuals. It has also conducted awareness programmes across 70 villages, churches, schools and colleges, reaching approximately 19,351 people. In addition, 22 schools and colleges have sent students for internships, giving practical exposure to around 804 students in palliative and community care.
At IMDH Mokokchung, the programme was held at the Conference Hall with Dr. R. Alemba Jamir, senior specialist, delivering the keynote address. He stressed that hospice and palliative care extend beyond hospitals to homes, adding that pain relief is not a luxury but an essential component of compassionate healthcare. He emphasised that palliative care aims to improve the quality of life of patients and families facing serious illness.
Dr. Alemwabang Aier, medical superintendent, IMDH, said palliative care is not limited to cancer patients but also extends to those with kidney disease, stroke and other chronic conditions. He called for community support, involvement of medical officers and caregivers, and urged all health centres to participate. “When cure is less effective, palliative care becomes vital,” he stated.
Addressing pain management, Dr. Maongtula Jamir, junior specialist, highlighted its multi dimensional nature, encompassing physical, psychological, spiritual, social and financial aspects. She discussed essential steps in assessing pain and elaborated on four common types of pain.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Limanaro, DPO (UIP & RCH), Mokokchung, while the nursing superintendent delivered the vote of thanks. Medical officers and nursing students attended the event.
Meanwhile, the District Health Society, Mon, observed the day by organising a healthcare visit to the John 3:16 Society Mon Senior Citizen Old Age Home, where 20 elderly women received medical attention and support. The medical team conducted general health check ups, blood sugar testing, dental examinations and mental health counselling.
Welcoming the team, P. Hamkai Konyak, director of the home, expressed gratitude for the continued support of doctors and nurses since its establishment six years ago. He requested regular visits to ensure ongoing care for the residents.
Moie Bonnie Konyak, district programme manager, explained the purpose of the visit and outlined the services provided. Dr. Ngampa Konyak, senior medical officer, District Hospital Mon, stressed the importance of regular health check ups and encouraged residents to share health concerns openly. He emphasised that healthcare extends beyond medicines to listening, understanding and emotional support. He also urged Aadhaar enrolment and Ayushman card registration for residents to access healthcare benefits.
The observance underscored the importance of accessible healthcare, emotional support and compassionate care for patients and the elderly, reaffirming the commitment of health institutions to promote dignity and quality of life through palliative services.