Imphal: Stating that the diagnosis of cancer still presents a major crisis not only to the patient but also the patient’s primary caregivers that are family members, Basanta Sharma, Editor of the Morning Bell, called for the involvement of family caregivers for optimal treatment of the patients in ensuring treatment compliance, continuity of care and social support particularly at the end of life.
Speaking as chief guest at the foundation day of Chhabi Sahayog Foundation, an NGO run by social workers and cancer warriors, which dedicates works to the benefits of cancer survivors, said that primary caregivers often assume this role under sudden and extreme circumstances, with minimal preparation and uneven guidance and support from the healthcare system.
The primary setting for the delivery of care to patients with cancer, he said, has shifted from the hospital to the home as a result of increased use of outpatient services for cancer treatment, shortened hospital visits, longer survival, and the trend for caregivers to accommodate patients’ desire to be cared for at home for as long as possible.
Caring for a family member with cancer poses significant challenges, with considerable psychological, physical and financial consequences for the caregiver, said Sharma, adding that family caregiving has gained attention in the past decade with the growing realization that support for family caregivers benefits the caregiver, the patient, and the healthcare team.
The senior journalist also appreciated the Foundation for its multifaceted roles of caregivers in cancer care… The most vulnerable ones are the ones Chhabi Sahayog renders selfless services taking care of not only those patients coming from various places to Mumbai for treatment but also acts as their primary caregivers.
