World Hospice and Palliative Care Day

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day is an annual unified day of action to celebrate and support hospice and palliative care around the world.

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day takes place on October 12 with the goal of improving the quality of life for people affected by serious health problems. Those that have life-limiting illnesses have the right to be cared for in the way that best suits their needs and this holiday emphasizes that. It draws attention to that belief in a myriad of ways; one of which is that every second year, a wave of concerts known as Voices for Hospices takes place to entertain and spread joy.

It was originally created in 1989 by Sheila Hurton in order to raise funds and public awareness of the Princess Alice Hospice in Esher. It started as a single concert titled ‘Come and Sing’ and it grew to become a worldwide event.

The year 2024 marks 10 years since the World Health Assembly (WHO’s Governing Body) passed the only stand-alone resolution on palliative care, calling for all countries to ‘strengthen palliative care as a component of comprehensive care throughout the life course.’ This is what inspired the theme for 2024.

Healthcare professionals and organizations shared about this on social media:

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus

“On World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, we come together to honour the compassion and dedication of those who care for us and our loved ones when we are at our most vulnerable.

Every person, everywhere, deserves access to quality care that alleviates serious illness suffering, and offers comfort, respect, and dignity.”

WHO/Europe

“Why aren’t all patients with life-limiting conditions referred for palliative care?

WHO/Europe experts shed light on why timely intervention matters. Discover how comprehensive palliative care transforms patient and family experiences.”

St. Michael’s Hospice 

“To celebrate world hospice and palliative care day and hospice care week we’re in Festival Place to share information about our wonderful services, promote our upcoming events and even sell our new Christmas cards!

Pop by to say hello to the team.”

Quro Medical

“What’s the difference between Palliative care and Hospital At Home? Palliative care focuses on comfort and quality of life for serious, life-limiting illnesses, while HAH provides hospital-level treatment and recovery of specific conditions at home.”

North York General

“It’s World Hospice and Palliative Care Day. Thank you to NYGH’s team at the Freeman Centre for Advancement of Palliative Care who are helping patients and families navigate the symptoms and stresses of serious illnesses to improve quality of life.”

Oncology Data Advisor

“Have you thought about pursuing Palliative Care as part of your training? Here’s the perfect intro for you! For World Hospice And Palliative Care Day, Richa Thakur and Nida Khan discuss their unique perspectives of working in palliative care.”

Kacy Ballard

“World Hospice and Palliative Care Day is this Saturday. Let’s take a moment to honor the incredible care provided to anyone facing serious illness and shine a light on the importance of access to quality hospice and palliative care for all. As a leader in this industry, I believe it is incredibly important to advocate for more resources, raise awareness and celebrate the professionals and caregivers who deliver compassionate care every day.”

Chapters Health System

“Today is World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, a time to honor the compassionate care that help patients and families navigate end-of-life care with dignity and support. At Chapters Health, we are proud to provide high quality care to those with life-limiting illnesses. Together, we can raise awareness about the importance of hospice and palliative care and ensure that everyone has access to this essential care.”

Eduardo Bruera

“Happy Palliative Care Day to all clinicians who frequently work with low resources and recognition to alleviate the suffering of patients and families in the most difficult time in their lives. I am so proud to be one of you!”

Gentiva

“Compassion is at the heart of caring for people with serious and terminal illnesses – and it is one of our core values. Today, on World Hospice And Palliative Care Day, we want to raise awareness for the meaningful impact that Hospice Care and Palliative Care can have for people around the world.”