As Turgunalieva explained, palliative care represents one of the most humane directions in medicine.
“It is support that encompasses medical and psycho-emotional aspects for patients with incurable diseases, such as advanced-stage diabetes, resistant tuberculosis, AIDS, and terminal cancer. Although this type of care is quite relevant, it still remains new for developing countries, including Kyrgyzstan. Patients with incurable illnesses also have the right to a dignified life. The main task of palliative care is pain relief and alleviation of symptoms that worsen the patient's condition,” she added.
She also noted that the legislation of Kyrgyzstan enshrines the right to receive palliative care; however, there are no hospices for adults in the republic.
“This year, a center called ‘Maksat’ was opened in Bishkek, which provides palliative care, although it is just a small unit. There are also departments in the National Center for Oncology and Hematology, as well as in a branch in Osh. Unfortunately, there are practically no places for hospitalization for palliative patients, as these are not surgical or oncological cases. As for children's hospices, there is only one functioning in the country, and it operates on a private basis. Unfortunately, there are no state children's palliative departments,” concluded Milana Turgunalieva.
