Discussion on Palliative Care in Holguin

The role of palliative care was the central theme of the October meeting of the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Forum in Holguin. During the meeting, it was emphasized that such care should begin at the moment of diagnosis. Rather than being reserved solely for the end of life.

Given that malignant tumors are the second leading cause of death in the province of Holguin. The discussion focused on this area—especially since there has been an increase in diagnoses at advanced stages in recent years. This reality underscores the importance of providing comprehensive and timely care to individuals with cancer.

Dr. Juan Carlos Báster Moro, an official from the department coordinating non-communicable diseases. Noted that the term “palliative care” is often used interchangeably with “end-of-life care” or “care for patients in the terminal stage.”

“Palliative care encompasses a range of actions for patients of any age facing specific health challenges. It requires various resources, including specialized professional training and material supplies. Which may not always be readily available. However, through integrated efforts, it is possible to ensure that both the patient and their family can navigate this phase. With the highest possible quality of life and, above all, with dignity.”

Palliative care is not limited to oncology; it is also necessary for those suffering from other diseases or irreversible health conditions. Its purpose is to support individuals throughout the course of their illness. Addressing both their own needs and those of their family.

In keeping with tradition, the event was dedicated to a prominent figure in the healthcare field. In this instance, Dr. Raimundo Llanio Navarro, a Doctor of Sciences, the father of Cuban gastroenterology, and the founder of the specialty’s institute located within the Calixto García University Hospital. The dedication honors his scientific and academic contributions. Most notably his textbooks on medical propedeutics, which have played a vital role in training new generations of healthcare professionals.

Psychologists Lourdes Durán Cordobés and Irenia Gallardo Morales, joined by clinical oncologist Jesús Guerra. Also who specializes in urology, discussed a patient’s right to be informed of their diagnosis. Having this information empowers patients to participate in decisions regarding their own care and how they wish to spend the time they have left.

The specialists also reflected on the right to receive care and to experience the end of life with dignity—ideally, within a family setting. The discussion encompassed contemporary international approaches to palliative care.

Among the challenges highlighted during the forum was the need to improve palliative care training within medical education. Both at the undergraduate level and through continued professional development. Equipping healthcare professionals with the right skills is essential for enhancing the support and management provided to individuals with advanced illnesses.

Furthermore, the need to strengthen coordination between primary healthcare teams and the Territorial Oncology Center (COT) was raised. Greater collaboration would provide primary care professionals with the tools necessary to properly guide and care for cancer patients.

The meeting brought together academics from the University of Medical Sciences of Holguin. As well as representatives from the General Directorate of Health, the COT, and the Provincial Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Microbiology. With these facilities—along with the Oncohematology Service at the Octavio de la Concepción de la Pedraja Pediatric Hospital.

Holguin serves as a national reference center for the comprehensive care of oncology patients. The academic forums, which began in Holguin in January of this year. Take an academic, scientific, social, and, above all, human-centered approach, addressing issues that cut across the region’s healthcare system.

Also these forums are greatly enriched by the inclusion of students from medicine and other undergraduate health science programs. Who contribute to debates and offer proposals for better addressing the topics under discussion.

Given their excellent reception, there is currently talk of extending these forums to the other municipalities in the northeastern region.