Experiential Learning Visit to Palliative Care Programme Mysuru.

The department of Sociology as a part of Experiential Learning Activity visited SVYMs Palliative Care Programme located at PKTB, Metagalli, Mysuru on 23 rd August 2024 at 10:30 am. Second and final year students participated in the activity.

Objectives of the visit:

To gain insight into the principles and practices of palliative care
To explore ways to enhance the quality of care provided to patients, focusing on comfort, dignity, and quality of life.

SVYM’s palliative care program provides free, holistic, and home-based care & institution based care services for the people who are suffering from life limiting disorders and diseases. Palliative care program serves the population of urban, semi-urban and rural areas of HD Kote, Saragur, Mysuru , Hassan and Bengaluru. At SVYM’s rural hospital, Vivekananda Memorial Hospital, in Saragur, the palliative care services are integrated into the overall package and not delivered in isolation. The entire care delivery incorporates principles of palliative care, emphasizing early detection and management of symptoms, quality of life and rehabilitation for chronic and incurable illnesses. The services are supported by a certified Palliative Care Physician and specially trained Palliative Care nurses, counselor and health workers attached to SVYM’s Palliative Care Program.

In Mysuru, Hassan and Dharwad, SVYM has entered into a partnership model with eminent institutions like MMCRI, HIMS and DIMANS respectively, to provide accessible palliative care with a goal to reach the unreached individuals from socio-economically humble background.

SVYM’s palliative care services have constantly evolved over time to respect the cultural context, the emerging needs and the medical evidence.

SVYM’s Palliative Care Centre in Mysuru remodeled itself to continue serving through outpatient and home care services. Inpatient services were closed for one and a half months, but continued uninterrupted afterwards.

Dr Veena addressed our students on the functioning of the programme, the different stages and strategies involved to reach the people and cater their needs. A video was played which focused completely on SVYMs vision, mission and different projects undertaken and the mile stones of its journey in bridging the population and government. Dr veena stressed on the role of volunteers in the care programme. She explained different ways to get involved in this programme. After the session the students visited the ward and interacted with patients and their family members.

The students observed the family interaction programme and different levels of counseling given in the centre. Overall the visit was very fruitful.

Outcome:

Gain a deeper understanding of palliative care principles, including the focus on quality of life
Raising awareness about the role and benefits of palliative care
Building relationships with palliative care teams can foster better communication and collaboration, leading to more coordinated and effective patient care.

Overall, a visit to palliative care program lead to a range of positive outcomes that contribute to better understanding, improved care practices, and enhanced collaboration.