Thiruvananthapuram: The World Health Organization (WHO), in one of its publications, has described Kerala’s palliative care model as exceptional and inspiring, drawing attention and admiration from around the world.
“While most countries provide palliative care mainly through institutional facilities, Kerala delivers compassionate, home-based care through a community-driven model,” Health Minister Veena George has said.
“Kerala has launched the Universal Palliative Care Project and the Kerala Care Palliative Grid, aiming to fulfill our promise of caring for our most vulnerable. This has created a strong, compassionate network of over 2,400 units and more than 10,000 volunteers, ensuring dedicated home-based care for over 1.5 lakh patients,” she added.
The Universal Palliative Care Project marks a historic milestone for Kerala, which is the first state in India to recognize the need for a comprehensive policy on compassionate care.
“The state introduced its first palliative care policy in 2008, revised it in 2019, and transformed it into an actionable program in 2023. Today marks the official launch of initiatives based on that framework,” the minister explained.
In the palliative care sector, over 1,500 organizations provide psychosocial support, and around 500 organizations offer clinical services in the private sector. Alongside this, the government ensures care through its 1,743 primary healthcare institutions, 345 community health centers, and major hospitals.
Through the Universal Palliative Care Project, more voluntary organizations and individuals are joining this compassionate care network. Anyone interested can contribute by volunteering just one hour per week.
Both individuals and organizations can register through their respective local self-governments to become part of this network. In the next phase, the project will ensure comprehensive home-based care for 1.5 lakh bedridden patients, implemented through People’s Health Centers (Janakeeya Arogyakendram).
