Palliative care is more than hospice; it optimizes symptom management, nurtures spiritual support, and provides psychosocial services for individuals with life-threatening illnesses. In addition to providing care, we are developing the first accredited palliative medicine programs in Kenya for nurses, clinical officers and physicians providing sustainable access to palliative care for all Kenyans.

Challenge

It is estimated that the death rate from cancer in the US is 40% compared to 79% in eastern Africa. Poor prognosis for many patients is worsened by limited access to pain management. A 2010 article from the Human Rights Watch reported morphine availability in only 7 of the 250 Kenyan public hospitals and the morphine available was only sufficient enough to treat a mere 1,500 patients. Our goal is to treat patients with life limiting illness in the hospital or at home to maximize quality of life.

Long-Term Impact

Building the AMPATH Palliative Care Program will to optimize symptom management and provide comfort and psychosocial services for more individuals in western Kenya facing life-threatening illnesses such as cancer and HIV. AMPATH's goal is to provide access to health care for the entire population served, leaving no one behind.

References

1. http://www.ampathkenya.org/our-programs/clinical-public-health-services/palliative-care/
2. http://www.ampathkenya.org/our-programs/clinical-public-health-services/palliative-care/

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