JEDDAH: The first palliative care program specifically designed for teenagers and young adults in the Arab world has been introduced by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre. By providing integrated care during the course of their treatment, this program seeks to enhance the quality of life for young patients with life-threatening illnesses. In addition to improving patient care, the program fills a significant need in palliative services for young patients in the Arab world and acts as a template for other efforts of a similar nature.
Enhancing the quality of life for patients with terminal illnesses, such as advanced malignancies, heart disease, neurological conditions, and organ failure, is the main goal of palliative care. Additionally, it facilitates decision-making, provides social and psychological support, and enhances the patient experience in general. The curriculum tackles age-specific issues for teenagers and young adults, such as managing the psychological effects of disease, preserving autonomy in care decisions, and juggling treatment with employment or school.
To support patients and their families, the program includes a multidisciplinary team of mental health specialists, social workers, specialised nurses, and palliative care doctors. Only 14% of patients worldwide who require palliative care receive it, according to the World Health Organisation, indicating a serious service gap. Palliative care can improve overall quality of life and lessen symptom load in young patients with life-threatening illnesses, according to research.
Also Read:
A Saudi Minister Examines Important Medical Facilities in Makkah
With The Debut of The First Operational Cloud RAN Station, 5G Advanced in Saudi Arabia
