HospiceWits is thrilled to announce our upcoming symposium, “Leading Growth in Palliative Care,” scheduled for November 2, 2024. We warmly invite healthcare practitioners and palliative care workers to join us for a day of learning, discussion, and collaboration at the Netcare Head Office, located at 76 Maude Street Corner West Street, Sandton. This event promises to be both informative and engaging, running from 08:00 to 16:30. Secure your spot today to ensure you don’t miss out on this essential gathering of minds in the field of palliative care.
Why Attend?
Palliative care is a critical component of healthcare, especially for those nearing the end of life. At HospiceWits, we are committed to delivering the highest level of service to communities in and around Johannesburg and Soweto. Our symposium aims to foster growth and understanding in palliative care, focusing on areas that are often overlooked.
This year’s theme will continue to highlight the need to broaden our perspective on hospice work. Palliative care isn’t solely for patients in the terminal phase of life-threatening illnesses. It also encompasses those with long-term, life-limiting chronic conditions. Our symposium will shine a light on these vital areas, encouraging dialogue and thought leadership.
Symposium Highlights
The event will cover a range of topics designed to enhance knowledge and practice in palliative care:
Active Cancer Treatment for Palliation: Dr. Sze Wai Chan will discuss the strategic use of active cancer treatments in palliative care, focusing on when and how these treatments can be effectively employed to improve patient quality of life.
Life Support and ICU Triage: Prof. Guy Richards will explore the ethical and practical considerations involved in limiting life support and making triage decisions in the ICU, emphasizing the role of palliative care in these critical situations.
Dementia and Medication Management: Dr. India Butler will address the complexities of managing medications in patients with dementia, including the challenges of polypharmacy and the use of sedatives.
Role of General Practitioners: A GP will highlight the crucial role that general practitioners play in providing palliative care, emphasizing their involvement in patient care planning and management.
Spirituality in Palliative Care: Dr. Mpho Ratshikana will focus on the often-overlooked aspect of spirituality in palliative care, discussing its importance in holistic patient support.
Communication Strategies: Dr. Penny Mathe will delve into effective communication techniques within palliative care settings, crucial for patient and family interactions.
Ethics in Palliative Care: Dr. Brad Beira will lead a discussion on the ongoing ethical considerations in palliative care, addressing dilemmas faced by healthcare providers.
Renal Supportive Care: Prof. Nicky Wearne will provide insights into the role of palliative care in managing patients with renal failure, highlighting supportive care strategies.
Transitioning from Oncology to Palliative Care: Dr. Sithembile Ngidi will discuss the transition process for patients moving from active oncology treatments to palliative care, focusing on continuity of care.
Wellness and Movement for the Aged: Ms. Chris Darrell will present on the benefits of joy and movement for elderly patients, promoting wellness through innovative approaches like dance.
Draft Programme
Here’s a glimpse of the exciting programme we have lined up for the day:
08:00-08:30: Tea / Registrations
Morning Session Chairperson: Dr. Tahera Essay
08:35-08:40: Mrs. Jaqui Kaye – Welcome
08:45-09:15: Dr. Sze Wai Chan – “When to Use Active Cancer Treatment for Palliation?”
09:20-09:50: Prof. Guy Richards – Limitation of Life Support and ICU Triage
09:55-10:25: Dr. India Butler – Dementia Medication in Dementia and Memory Loss, Polypharmacy, Sedatives
10:30-11:00: Dr. Tracy Paiken – Role of the GP in Palliative Care
11:00-11:30: Tea Break
Late Morning Session Chairperson: Dr. Soji Soogan
11:35-12:05: Dr. Mpho Ratshikana – Spirituality in Palliative Care – Often Neglected
12:10-12:40: Dr. Penny Mathe – Communication in Palliative Care
12:45-13:30: Dr. Brad Beira – Ethics in Palliative Care – An Ongoing Discussion
13:30-14:15: Lunch
Afternoon Session Chairperson: Dr. Nivedita Kesaru
14:20-14:55: Prof. Nicky Wearne – Renal Supportive Care
15:00-15:30: Dr. Sithembile Ngidi – Transitioning between Oncology Treatment and Palliative Care
15:35-16:00: Dr. Danielle Lincoln – The Dark Side of Long-Term Palliative Care
16:05-16:20: Ms. Susan Sloan – NIA – Dancing for Life
16:20-16:30: Ms. Chris Darrell – Joy and Movement – Wellness for the Aged
16:30: Mr. Zanoxolo Mciteka – Closing – Song for Palliative Care
Connect with Us
Join us at the Netcare Head Office in Sandton for a day dedicated to advancing palliative care. For inquiries or to reserve your spot, please contact us at 011 483 9100 or email qinisile@hospice.co.za. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative experience that will enrich your practice and enhance your understanding of palliative care.
The 2024 HospiceWits Palliative Care Symposium is more than just an event; it’s a call to action for healthcare professionals to expand their horizons and embrace the full spectrum of palliative care. Together, we can lead growth and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families.
We look forward to welcoming you to an inspiring day of learning and networking. Click the link below to reserve your place today and join us in shaping the future of palliative care. 👇
