Under one in three aware palliative care involves therapists, pastoral team: Poll

About three in five Singaporeans know what palliative care is because they are already in the system and are using healthcare services, a recent study found.

- Judith Tan

Conducted jointly by Ren Ci Hospital and Forbes Research from June to July, the survey of 500 respondents - comprising patients, residents, clients and their next of kin - was done through face-to-face interviews at Ren Ci's nursing homes, its chronic sick unit and senior care centres, as well as telephone and online surveys with next of kin.

The results of the survey were revealed by Ren Ci chairman Seow Choke Meng during the charity healthcare institution's 30th anniversary gala dinner at Shangri-La Hotel on Oct 12.

“What stood out from the finding was while 90 per cent wished for adequate control of physical symptoms, such as pain relief and shortness of breath, 91 per cent of respondents also felt they needed more emotional and psychological support,” Mr Seow said.

Ren Ci clinical director David Ng, who led the survey, said psychological and emotional support is key.

“Yet, less than a third of those surveyed were aware that therapists and pastoral team members are also involved in the provision of palliative care,” he said. “This is where we can do more to continue to create awareness of the multidisciplinary team supporting the holistic provision of palliative care.”