Breaking: Federal Government Announces Plans For Comprehensive Review Of Cancer Care Policy

The Federal Government is set to reassess the National Policy and Strategic Plan for Hospice and Palliative Care 2021 with the aim of enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. Dr. Uchechukwu Nwokwu, the National Coordinator of the National Cancer Control Programme, revealed this during an interview in Abuja on Sunday…….CONTINUE READING

The policy, initiated in 2021, was designed to establish hospice and palliative care services as integral components of healthcare in Nigeria. According to the International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care, these services encompass comprehensive care for individuals, spanning all age groups, grappling with severe health-related suffering due to critical illnesses, particularly those approaching the end of life.

Dr. Nwokwu acknowledged that while the policy is in effect, its implementation has not reached the desired scale. Anticipating a review in 2024, he expressed optimism about the potential improvements in palliative care for cancer patients, aligning with the agenda of the new government.

Cancer, a malady indifferent to race, religion, or social status, can impose a significant financial burden due to the exorbitant cost of care. Dr. Nwokwu emphasized that palliative care is not exclusive to cancer but extends to any illness with the potential for prolonged suffering. The policy underscores the need for institutionalizing palliative care from the point of diagnosis, integrating psychosocial support and faith-based considerations.

Explaining the genesis of the policy, Dr. Nwokwu highlighted the importance of palliating unmanageable pain, allowing individuals with terminal illnesses to lead a reasonably good quality of life. The document emphasizes the integration of palliative care starting from the diagnosis, involving psychosocial and faith-based support systems.

Dr. Nwokwu emphasized the significance of early diagnosis, asserting that many cancer patients suffer due to late detection. Lack of awareness or diagnostic capabilities at healthcare facilities often contributes to delayed treatment. The palliative care policy aims to address this by integrating services at primary care levels, facilitating early detection and intervention.

The policy envisions the integration of Hospice and Palliative Care (HPC) services across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of healthcare. Dr. Nwokwu envisions a comprehensive approach where healthcare providers at all levels are equipped to manage palliative care effectively. This includes addressing the needs of in-patients and those with terminal illnesses, ensuring a dignified and reasonably good quality of life.

In conclusion, Dr. Nwokwu emphasized the importance of optimizing resources, redirecting patients to appropriate care levels, and avoiding unnecessary hospitalization costs when curative measures are no longer feasible. The palliative care policy aims to create a holistic healthcare framework that considers physical, emotional, and financial aspects for patients with serious illnesses, contributing to an enhanced quality of life.

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