The Ghana Palliative Care Association (GPCA), in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has launched “October for Palliative Care Excellence in Ghana, 2025”—a nationwide campaign to raise awareness and strengthen palliative care services across the country.
The initiative is dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients living with life-limiting illnesses and their families. It seeks to promote compassionate care, advocacy, and professional excellence in health service delivery.
The launch, which aligns with the global observance of World Hospice and Palliative Care Day in October, brought together healthcare leaders, policymakers, civil society organizations, and patient advocacy groups.
At the event, stakeholders underscored that palliative care is a basic human right and called for greater investment in Ghana’s health systems to ensure equitable access. They stressed the need for all citizens, regardless of income or location, to receive appropriate and dignified care.
Organizers explained that October for Palliative Care Excellence will serve not only as an advocacy platform but also as a national call to action, urging government, professionals, and communities to prioritize palliative care as part of Ghana’s healthcare agenda.
Health experts also highlighted the shortage of trained professionals in palliative medicine and called for capacity-building programs to equip doctors, nurses, and allied health workers with the skills needed to deliver effective care. They noted that without specialized training, many patients and families are left to struggle with unmanaged pain and inadequate support.
In addition, participants stressed the need for improved access to essential palliative medicines, particularly pain relief drugs, which remain scarce in some parts of Ghana. They urged the Ministry of Health to strengthen supply chains and ensure that life-saving medications are affordable and available in both urban and rural health facilities.
Julius Blay JABS
