HOSPICE service was made available in Penang some 30 years ago.
It was initiated by the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (Penang branch) in 1992 and was taken over by the Penang Hospice Society in 2010.
Penang Hospice Society maintained the free hospice service all these years.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present to witness the important occasion, commended Penang Hospice Society for its continuous service to the needy community.
“We thank the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (Penang branch) for initiating this service in 1992 and the Penang Hospice Society for taking over this program in 2010 and maintaining it as a free service all these years.
“I am happy to note that the ‘Hospice at Home Program’ has become a model for the country.
“Today’s celebration is about recognising the work that Penang Hospice Society has been doing, in addition to increasing the awareness of the public that medical care is available in the homes of those who are suffering from advanced illnesses in Penang.
“This programme is aimed at easing the suffering of patients and improving their quality of life. At the same time, families are empowered to care more about their loved ones at home.
“The ‘Hospice at Home Program’ illustrates the value of care in the homes of the patients to complement the care given at hospitals thus promoting seamless care.
“The importance of care in homes as part of community care is being advocated globally.
“Health delivery has to be integrated with community care because of the increase in non-communicable diseases(NCDs) and ageing. The increase has resulted in a rapidly growing need for long-term care,” Chow said in his speech at Penang Hospice Society in Jalan Air Itam today.
Chow said that families could take on such care but they would need both health and social services to go to their homes.
“Such practices are already available in many developed countries. Any move in this direction will be towards fulfilling one of the visions we have for our state and country – a caring society,” he added.
He also thanked and congratulate the volunteers and staff who have contributed to the selfless community service.
“I would also like to thank the people who have provided encouragement and financial support to assist the needy,” he said.
Also present were Penang Hospice Society chairman Datuk Seri Dr T. Devaraj and vice-chairman Datuk Dr Chan Kok Ewe.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis