The Hospice Sri Lanka Alliance (HSLA) along with the College of Palliative Medicine of Sri Lanka (CPMSL) recently promoted evidence-based Palliative Medicine and care in Sri Lanka to enhance the quality of life for palliative patients in the country.
The ceremony was conducted under the patronage of Health Ministry Secretary Dr.Palitha Mahipala and HSLA, Chairman Prof. Samadhi Rajapaksa.
Palliative care is specialised medical care that focuses on providing relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness.
Prof. Samadhi Rajapaksa said in addition to HSLA, several hospices have also been operated in the island and its main objective is to elevate the hospice sector to international standards.
A number of representatives from Shantha Sevana, Maharagama, CANE Hospice, Jaffna, Cancer Care, Anuradhapura, Sri Sathya Sai Suva Sevana, Hanwella, Institute of Palliative Medicine, Matara, Eastern Cancer Care, Eravur and Sahana Sevana, Maharagama were present at the ceremony and shared their experiences.
A book “Touch of Tender Loving Care” published by the College of Palliative Medicine of Sri Lanka that provides essential guidance to caregivers in both community and hospice was also launched at the ceremony.
The book was authored by experts in the calibre of Dr Ishanka Talagala, Dr Prasadini Karunarathne,Dr Renuka Jayathissa,Dr Ishara Premathilake, Dr Thusitha Kahaduwa and and Dr Manudi Vidhanapathirana in their respective fields and this publication offers a wealth of knowledge for caregiver training and self-learning initiatives.
The “Touch of Tender Loving Care” series encapsulates vital aspects such as basic palliative care, pain management, nutrition guidance, prevention of communicable diseases, care of bed sores and support for caregivers.
