**AHPGIC CELEBRATES WORLD HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE DAY 2026**
The Department of Palliative Medicine, AHPGIC, Cuttack, celebrated World Hospice and Palliative Care Day 2026 with an awareness walkathon and a workshop on “Pain Relief: From Prescription to the Patient’s Home.”
Led by Prof. Dr. Sumita Mohanty, the walkathon saw participation from healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, volunteers and NGOs, including Umeedein, Amrit Dhara and Rotary Club, promoting compassionate, patient-centred care.
In collaboration with the District Health Administration, Cuttack, the workshop aimed to strengthen palliative care at the primary healthcare level. Doctors, nurses and pharmacists from across the district attended.
The inaugural session featured Group Captain Dr. Deepak Rautray, Director, AHPGIC; Prof. Dr. Rekha Das, Dean and Principal; Prof. Dr. Sumita Mohanty; and Dr. Susanta Kumar Swain, CDMO, Cuttack.
Scientific sessions covered total pain assessment, the WHO pain management ladder, rational opioid use and NDPS regulations. Dr. Pratyasa Padhi highlighted primary healthcare integration, while Smt. Mamina Patnaik, Drug Controller of Odisha, discussed opioid regulation and access to pain-relief medicines.
A panel discussion explored challenges and opportunities in improving access and continuity of care. The initiative reaffirmed AHPGIC’s commitment to dignified, compassionate palliative care—from hospital to home.
