Exploring Palliative Medicine: A Conversation with Dr. Rene Krause
At the University of Cape Town (UCT), the Post Graduate Diploma in Palliative Medicine stands as a beacon of education, aiming to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide modern palliative care. We had the privilege of speaking with Associate Professor Rene Krause, Head of Division: Interdisciplinary Palliative Care and Medicine (IPCM) in the Department of Family, Community and Emergency Care (FaCE), to delve deeper into the purpose and impact of this diploma.
Addressing the Need for Palliative Care Services
Dr Krause emphasizes the diploma’s crucial role in addressing the scarcity of palliative care services in South Africa, particularly in underserved communities. “The programme is an enabler, teaching clinicians and healthcare professionals essential palliative care skills and nurturing leadership within the palliative care discipline, especially where resources are limited,” says Dr Krause.
Additionally, the diploma fosters communities of practice, providing vital support and resources, particularly for providers in rural areas.
Beneficiaries of the Programme
Beyond doctors and nurses, Dr Krause highlights the significant impact the diploma could have on a range of healthcare professionals, including social workers and health and rehabilitation workers. There is a substantial gap in the provision of palliative care within these disciplines. A robust psycho-social course is needed to address this gap effectively.
Proud Achievements of the Programme
Reflecting on the diploma’s impact, Dr Krause expresses her pride in the ethical decision-making and communication skills displayed by those who have completed the course.
Additionally, the programme equips individuals to identify palliative care needs and effectively manage pain, enhancing patient care quality.
Building Upon Foundations: The MPhil Programme
Dr Krause also shares on the MPhil programme, which builds upon the foundation laid by the Postgraduate Diploma. Through this advanced programme, students will develop advanced palliative care skills, further leadership capabilities, research proficiency, and a more profound ability to engage with communities, not just patients, through advocacy.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Palliative Medicine at UCT is a cornerstone in broadening access to palliative care across South Africa and neighbouring countries by empowering healthcare professionals to provide compassionate and effective care to those in need.