Traveling Scholars Program Report
Anu Savio Thelly, Ms.
Travel date: February 11, 2022
Name of Meeting/Event/Activity: 29th International Conference of Indian Association for Palliative Care
Origin: Jaipur, India / Destination: Jaipur, India
How was this meeting/activity helpful to you?
Thanks to IAHPC for supporting me. As the conference was a virtual event, people like me who have limitations in travel could attend the sessions. Participating in the conference allowed me to connect with international colleagues encouraged me to continue our shared work to expand access to high-quality palliative care for all people everywhere. The organizers of this conference successfully integrated abreast of the latest policy developments, best knowledge and best practices locally, regionally, and globally. It helped professionals like me stay aware of the current advocacy issues and educational, research, and networking opportunities and allowed me to learn from the best, network with like-minded colleagues from different parts of the work, enhance our skills and knowledge. Learning from the pioneers and clarifying our doubts with them is something I value very much. No other international association has contributed more to professional development, research and advocacy, focused on increasing access to quality care for patients suffering from advanced diseases. So a big thank you to IAHPC and Genevieve Napier for this bursary, and I hope you will continue the excellent work!
How will you new knowledge & acquired skills help in furthering your work in hospice and palliative care in your program/city/ or country?
Currently, I am working as a Nurse Consultant at Dept of Palliative Care, Mahatama Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Pondicherry. I am working to improve the auditing process and training activities in my institution. We are also forming an advocacy group for ensuring the availability of essential opioids for the needy. Some sessions in the conference shared success stories, challenges and barriers in improving the drug availability from other parts of the country.
How IAHPC Traveling Scholars Program be improved in order to help other future traveling scholars?
You have given us the best. Thank you
Narrative summary highlighting the needs and challanges you face
This conference facilitated discussions on challenges faced during the pandemic and measures taken to overcome them. During Covid-19, we were advised to close the In-Patient facility in our hospital as the pandemic badly hit our region. This has happened to many centres also. Networking with experts has helped build a team to work on these challenges. I have been a part of Nursing sessions as a moderator. Access to resources has been a big challenge to nurses working in palliative care. Our session covered cost-effective interventions to be used in multiple settings.This has also helped bring together many pioneering nurses playing the lead roles nationally. Thank you, IAHPC, for facilitating this.