Hospice Care Week: Dr Mihir's Story

Our care reaches further than you think, through our training and education initiatives. Dr Mihir Gajre has just completed the final placement of his two-year foundation training at the hospice.

When I started my placement here, I didn't really know anything about hospices. It's been quite eye-opening to see how we can still make a big difference for people at the end of their lives.

Patients may be in pain when they arrive here, but with the right medication they can be feeling a lot more comfortable within an hour. It's so rewarding to see that, and how their families can get to spend time with them when they're comfortable.

I was surprised how busy it is here, and I didn't realise that we could take people in to sort out their symptoms and then get them home again with a long-term holistic plan.

I've learnt how much attention to detail is required to get the medication right for each individual. I also feel better equipped to talk with patients and families, especially around the more difficult conversations.

It's been an amazing learning environment because everyone is so supportive here. They've really put effort into training me.

The best advice I'll take from here is the importance of seeing a patient as a whole person and not just a diagnosis.

In addition to our student placements, our Education Team offer specialist palliative care training sessions to carers and other healthcare professionals. Topics covered include holistic symptom management, effective communication at end of life, bereavement and self-care.

In the 24/25 year, they welcomed attendees from across Kent and the South East, including individuals from 14 care homes, and reached nationally via online courses. By offering this training, we can expand the reach of our care throughout the community as the attendees share their knowledge with their teams.