Palliative Care Specialist

Job Description

Job Purpose

The Palliative Care Specialist is responsible for providing compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals with cancer and haematological disorders who require palliative care services. The role involves managing symptoms, enhancing quality of life, and supporting patients and their families throughout the course of illness. The specialist will collaborate with oncologists, haematologists, and other multidisciplinary healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive holistic care. This position also involves providing guidance on end-of-life care, pain management, and psychosocial support for patients and families.

Core Responsibilities

Patient Care and Symptom Management

• Provide comprehensive palliative care to patients with cancer and haematological conditions, focusing on symptom relief and quality of life.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans addressing pain, nausea, fatigue, dyspnoea, and other symptoms associated with advanced cancer and blood disorders.
• Administer medications, including opioids and adjuvants, for effective symptom management, while monitoring and adjusting doses based on patient response.
• Provide holistic care, addressing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.

Collaboration and Multidisciplinary Care

• Work closely with oncologists, haematologists, and nurses to develop and deliver comprehensive palliative care plans.
• Participate in case conferences, family meetings, and interdisciplinary rounds to ensure the integration of palliative care with ongoing treatment.
• Provide education and support to the multidisciplinary team on the principles and practices of palliative care.

End-of-Life Care and Advance Care Planning

• Guide patients and families through the process of advance care planning, including discussions on treatment goals, do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders, and end-of-life wishes.
• Facilitate conversations about death and dying, ensuring patients’ values and preferences are respected throughout their care.
• Support families in managing the emotional and psychological challenges of end-of-life care.

Patient and Family Education and Support

• Educate patients and families on the nature of their condition, the goals of palliative care, and strategies for managing symptoms.
• Provide emotional and psychosocial support to help patients and families cope with the challenges of chronic and terminal illness.
• Address concerns about pain management, nutrition, mobility, and the psychological aspects of living with a terminal illness.

Governance, Documentation, and Compliance

• Ensure accurate documentation of patient care, treatment plans, and progress in line with hospital and regulatory standards.
• Maintain compliance with relevant ethical guidelines, hospital policies, and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
• Participate in audits and quality improvement initiatives to enhance palliative care services.
• Uphold standards of practice in line with national and international palliative care guidelines.

Research and Continuous Professional Development

• Engage in clinical research, particularly studies focused on improving palliative care practices for oncology and haematology patients.
• Participate in continuous professional development activities, including attending workshops, seminars, and conferences.
• Mentor junior healthcare professionals and contribute to the education and training of medical students and residents in palliative care principles.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Medical Degree (MBBS, MBChB or its equivalent) from a recognised Institution.
• Completion of Residency program

Professional Requirements

• Valid medical license and registration
• Membership in relevant medical associations, such as the Nigerian Palliative Care Association, International Association for Hospice & Palliative Care or its equivalent

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a clinical setting, with a focus on oncology or haematology.
• Completion of post-basic training in oncology or hematology
• Experience in palliative care, particularly in the management of advanced cancer and haematological disorders, is required.
• Experience in end-of-life care, advanced care planning, and symptom management in terminal illness.
• Prior experience in multidisciplinary team collaboration and working with patients and families in crisis or distress.

Competency Requirements

1. Knowledge Requirements

• Strong knowledge of palliative care principles, symptom management, and pain relief strategies.
• In-depth understanding of oncology and haematology, including common cancers and blood disorders.
• Familiarity with ethical and legal aspects of palliative care, including advance directives, end-of-life care, and DNR orders.
• Knowledge of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to symptom management, including opioid use, antiemetics, and adjuvant therapies.
• Awareness of cultural sensitivity in providing care to diverse populations.
• Understanding of psychosocial issues faced by patients and families in terminal illness, and effective strategies to provide support

2. Skill Requirements

• Demonstrable skills in written and spoken English that are adequate to enable effective communication.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to perform effectively in sensitive situations.
• Excellent communication skills for explaining palliatives plans to patients and coordinating care with medical teams.

3. Personal Abilities

• Professional attitude towards work
• Shares the AMCE’s vision.
• Proactive and organized.
• Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care.
• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers. 
• Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
• Commitment to caring for others.
• Ability to adapt accordingly.
• High levels of honesty and integrity

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.