Jammu, October 10, 2026: Today, the Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu marked World Palliative Care Day by hosting a significant one-day workshop focused on enhancing palliative care practices. The event, themed “Pain Management – An Essential Part of Palliative Care,” gathered around 130 delegates, including surgeons, consultants, and postgraduate medical residents from various hospitals, highlighting the urgent need for effective pain management in healthcare.
The workshop aimed to improve the quality of life for patients battling cancer and similar life-limiting conditions. By fostering an interdisciplinary approach, the event enabled participants to share clinical experiences and learn from each other’s expertise. Under the direction of Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Principal and Dean at GMC Jammu, this gathering emphasized the vital role that comprehensive pain management plays in palliative care.
During the workshop, GMC Jammu launched a dedicated palliative care file, signifying a step towards enhancing palliative services and ensuring a systematic approach to patient care. Dr. Rajesh Mahajan, Organising Chairperson, alongside the other team members, worked diligently to create a platform that promotes compassionate care.
The scientific programme included expert presentations and engaging discussions covering various aspects of pain management including assessment techniques, holistic approaches, and the critical role that healthcare providers play in supporting patients. Special mention was made of appropriate opioid use and the significant contribution of nursing professionals in palliative care.
Anchoring the sessions were Dr. Jasmine Chaudhary and Dr. Heena Saini, who played crucial roles in facilitating a smooth and engaging atmosphere. An exciting poster competition was also part of the event with the theme: “The Last Chapter Can Still Be Beautiful.” This initiative encouraged medical students and residents to creatively express their views on maintaining dignity, comfort, and quality of life for patients nearing the end of life.
The effort concluded with a collective commitment from participants to work towards integrating palliative care into everyday clinical practice. They vowed to ensure patients receive timely relief from pain and compassionate support, reinforcing the essence of dignified care.
As GMC Jammu continues to take strides in palliative care education and practice, it sets a precedent for other medical institutions, fostering an environment where patient’s rights to pain relief and dignified care are recognized and prioritized.
