To commemorate World Hospice and Palliative Care Day (WHPCD) this year, the Palliative Care Department in Bangalore Baptist Hospital conducted several events over the week of October 8 – 15, 2022. These events included public awareness programs, a staff poster competition and a memorial service.
Over the course of the week, 4 public awareness programs on palliative care were conducted in the various patient registration areas in the hospital, during peak hours. These were conducted as skits covering conditions needing palliative care and its benefits.
A poster competition was also conducted for the staff and students of the hospital, in collaboration with the Geriatrics Department with the theme “Palliative Care in the elderly”. 14 entries were received and all the posters were displayed on the walls of outpatient department areas for the entire week. The best 3 posters were awarded prizes.
A memorial service for bereaved families was conducted on October 14, 2022. This annual event is hosted by the department every October close to WHPCD, as part of bereavement care as well as to increase awareness regarding palliative care. About 200 people attended this poignant program where several families shared their experiences of caring for their loved ones. The program ended with a candle-lighting in memory of the departed. Many families expressed their appreciation to the team for their service and for conducting this program.