Chulabhorn Hospital Spotlights Caregivers on World Palliative Care Day
Chulabhorn Hospital in Bangkok observed World Hospice and Palliative Care Day with an event emphasizing support for caregivers alongside patients. The program included expert panels on palliative care, caregiver mental health, and advance care planning, plus multidisciplinary consultation booths. The hospital recently earned ESMO accreditation for its palliative care standards through 2026.
Chulabhorn Hospital marked World Hospice and Palliative Care Day on October 21, 2026, with an event themed "Who Cares for the Caregiver? : Finding Light in the Shadow of Care." The program aimed to raise awareness of palliative care's importance while addressing the physical and mental well-being of caregivers, promoting understanding, encouragement, and holistic support to sustainably improve quality of life for patients and families.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Associate Professor Dr. Surasak Leelauedomlipi, Acting Director of Chulabhorn Hospital, alongside Dr. Jomthana Siriphaibul, Director of the Chulabhorn Hospital Cancer Center, and a multidisciplinary team. The event took place on the first floor of the Krom Phra Sri Sawangkhawat Building at Chulabhorn Hospital in Bangkok's Lak Si district.
Chulabhorn Hospital continues to develop palliative care services and has received international accreditation from the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) for 2024–2026, reflecting its commitment to international standards and comprehensive care addressing physical, psychological, and social needs.
The event featured three expert panel discussions: 1. Understanding Palliative Care: Dr. Jomthana Siriphaibul and Dr. Adisorn Wohan, Chair of the Palliative Care Committee, explained care focused on relieving suffering and enhancing quality of life for patients and families. 2. Unseen Pain of the Unsung Heroes: Voices of Caregivers: Family medicine specialist Dr. Nathakamon Phumsuwan, clinical psychologist Khun Prangthip Bunchaiapisit, social worker Khun Sopida Yamanee, and caregiver representative Khun Enok Rakngern reflected on caregivers' experiences, exhaustion, and inner feelings, offering self-care strategies and pathways to psychosocial support. 3. Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind: Advance Care Planning: Dr. Jiranya Ketsing and Dr. Korakot Promsakul provided guidance on planning future care to prepare for any situation.
Beyond panels, participants accessed direct consultations at booths staffed by a full multidisciplinary team: psychologists offering crisis counseling; physical and occupational therapists advising on rehabilitation and daily activity adaptation; dietitians providing stage-appropriate nutrition guidance; social workers connecting families with assistance and benefits; and critical care nurses conducting assessments.
