The Federal Government has emphasized the importance of continued care for cancer patients, urging healthcare facilities not to discharge patients prematurely when they still require hospital-based treatment, regardless of the curative potential. Dr. Uchechukwu Nwokwu, National Coordinator of the National Cancer Control Plan at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, articulated this stance in an interview, highlighting that even when curative options are exhausted, patients should not be sent home without proper care arrangements. He stressed that any health facility that lacks the ability to provide necessary treatment must refer the patient to another facility to ensure uninterrupted care.
Patients should only be discharged when they are clinically stable, can take oral treatment, and are unlikely to need further medical intervention. Nwokwu asserted that regardless of the severity of their condition, patients deserve to remain in a hospital setting until they are comfortable and stable.
In cases of advanced cancer, where a cure is no longer achievable, care should transition into palliative care. He emphasized that palliative care is critical and should not be relegated to end-of-life situations; rather, it should be integrated into the treatment plan shortly after diagnosis. The National Palliative Care Policy aims to weave palliative care throughout the illness trajectory, ensuring consistent support for patients and addressing not only physical symptoms but also psychological, social, and financial challenges arising from cancer diagnoses.
Nwokwu pointed out that a cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient’s livelihood and emotional wellbeing. Early integration of palliative care can alleviate these burdens and foster completion of necessary treatments. This care not only needs to manage pain but also to incorporate spiritual support, reflecting the patient’s beliefs and preferences. It is crucial for families to participate in the care process, as cancer affects the entire family unit.
Effective management of pain is a fundamental aspect of palliative care, and treatments like radiotherapy should be used strategically to relieve symptoms, not solely to achieve a cure. Early introduction of palliative care is pivotal for helping patients cope, adhere to treatment protocols, and complete their health journeys while maintaining their dignity and quality of life until the end. The Federal Government continues to reaffirm its commitment to comprehensive cancer care, underscoring the essential integration of both curative and palliative approaches in treating patients.
