Answer:

The program is open to the following candidates:

• Medical Officers with at least 1 year of experience post-housemanship, identified by the physician in charge or hospital director.
• Specialists from any discipline planning to stay at their current practice for the next two years.
• Candidates must have no history of disciplinary issues and should express interest in providing palliative care at their facility for at least two years.
• Approval from the head of the department and hospital director is required.

Answer:

• Candidates must meet the general and specific selection criteria.
• An initial screening of applications will be conducted.
• Successful candidates will be notified and issued an appointment letter by the hospital administrator upon completing the required training modules.
• Hospitals should nominate a replacement in case of vacancy to ensure service continuity.

Answer:

For Patients:

• Improved access to palliative care services closer to home.
• Better comfort, symptom management, and quality time with family.
• Reduced need for long hospital visits and improved peace of mind.

For Families:

• Reduced caregiving burden and healthcare costs.
• Better understanding of the patient’s condition and prognosis.

For the Healthcare System:

• Supports universal health coverage by expanding access to palliative care.
• Reduces hospital congestion and the use of acute care services.
• Lowers overall healthcare costs.

For the Nation:

• Improves public awareness of end-of-life care.
• Enhances productivity by reducing the time families spend traveling for care.
• Provides better support for economically disadvantaged populations.

Answer:

The training is a 4-month program comprising:

1. Pre-workshop preparation:

• Reading clinical guidelines and reference materials.

2. 2-day physical workshop:

• Includes lectures, group work, role play, and hands-on activities.

3. Site teachings:

• Two site-based sessions for bedside teaching, case presentations, and mini-clinical evaluations (Mini-CEX).

4. Submission requirements:

• A logbook, case report, and case presentation must be completed and submitted for certification.

Answer:

• Interested candidates should submit an application through their respective hospitals, ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria.
• The application should be accompanied by approval from the head of the department and hospital director.
• Upon selection, candidates must complete the program requirements and submit all documentation, including a logbook and case reports, for final verification and certification by the SIG committee.