Xiohara Gentica

The advent of paediatric palliative care was surmised to have started in the 1960’s when St. Christopher’s, the first hospice in London, was opened under the influence of Dr. Cicely Saunders.

The Philippines has an estimated population of 107 million people, and more than 60,000 children with serious illnesses who require palliative care each year. Despite this, there are not many palliative care programmes that can relieve suffering and support the needs of these children and their families.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted many strengths as well as gaps in the healthcare systems around the world. Early in the pandemic, training and mentorship systems for healthcare providers were paused, as the focus was on providing front-line care.