ABOUT PCAU
What is Palliative Care?
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Palliative Care as:
An approach that improves the quality of life of patients – adults and children – and their families who are facing problems associated with life-threatening illness. It prevents and relieves suffering through the early identification, impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, whether physical, psychosocial, or spiritual. Read more
However, the WHO’s current definition of palliative care for adults, established in 2002, is restrictive. It limits palliative care to life-threatening illnesses, overlooking the needs of patients with severe, chronic, and complex conditions—the definition for children, dating back to 1998, shares similar shortcomings. For a more comprehensive understanding of the current definition of palliative care, consult the Consensus-Based Definition of Palliative Care (2019).
The Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU)
Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU), is the national association for palliative care providers in Uganda. It was established in 1999 and registered as a Non-Governmental Organization in 2003 with a vision to extend access to palliative care services to all patients and families in need in Uganda. The association is composed of 1500+ individual members and 30 member organizations. PCAU coordinates civil society efforts and works closely with the Government of Uganda towards integrating palliative care services within the health care system across the country.
Where are Palliative care services found?
Palliative Care services are found in 107 districts of Uganda and 230 accredited facilities within these districts. These include: National referral Hospitals, Regional referral Hospitals, District Hospitals, General hospitals, and Health center IVs. 13 stand-alone hospices offer palliative care services throughout the country. These provide different palliative care models, including home care, roadside clinics, outreach palliative care programs, community daycares, and facility-based care.
PCAU’s main Focus Areas
Capacity building: To strengthen the capacity of palliative care providers in Uganda through supporting training, continuous professional education, mentorship, and supervision.
Advocacy and awareness creation: To advocate for a supportive environment and increase understanding of palliative care among stakeholders in Uganda.
Palliative Care Research and Information: To Establish a hub of research and information on palliative care in Uganda.
Governance and Support Functions: To enhance effective and efficient governance and management of Palliative Care Services in Uganda.
Sustainability and Financial Efficiency: To enhance resource mobilization and financial efficiency for Palliative Care in Uganda
