Although palliative care has been integrated into some health facilities and pre-service training programs, gaps remain in the number of trained work force, practicum opportunities, structured mentorship, and tutor preparedness to deliver palliative care modules.
PCAU aims to addresses these challenges by providing scholarships to health professionals to pursue specialized training for the Advanced Diploma in Palliative Care Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Palliative Care, targeting 39 districts without trained providers.
The Association also coordinates regional mentorship and supportive supervision with the Ministry of Health, deliver short courses and hospital-based CMEs on pain management, strengthen pre-service curricula, establish practicum centers, and advocate for CPD accreditation.
We Urge the government, training institutions, partners, and communities to invest in health worker training and champion palliative care because building one competent provider contributes to expanding access to palliative care, hence improving the quality of lives of patients and their families.
PCAU’s Capacity Building focuses on strengthening the skills and competencies of palliative care providers across Uganda through training, continuous professional development, mentorship, and supervision.
With over 370,000 people requiring palliative care annually, access remains limited due to gaps in health worker knowledge, specialist training, and equitable distribution of skilled providers, particularly in underserved districts. Many patients continue to experience unmanaged pain and serious health-related suffering, highlighting the need to expand workforce capacity.
Specialized courses and certification for health workers across Uganda
On-site support and supervision to ensure quality palliative care delivery.
Continuous Professional Education and evidence-based practice for providers
Palliative care in Uganda is defined by Ubuntu, where professional treatment is inseparable from our shared humanity.