Safe access to controlled medicines to alleviate physical and psychological symptoms is essential to palliative care services. Yet, millions worldwide still lack adequate access to these medicines, leaving them without effective pain relief and palliative care.
In a significant step forward for advocacy, the UNODC Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Section (PTRS) participated for the first time in the WHO Working Group on Palliative Care as an external observer, hosted by St. Jude’s Global. The team contributed a critical perspective on improving access to controlled medicines for those in need of palliative care.
Access to these medicines is a complex, multifaceted challenge. “Fear of diversion and dependency among physicians, and the stigma surrounding these medicines among patients, communities, and even health professionals, are major barriers within health systems,” noted the global coordinator of UNODC’s program on access to controlled medicines. Moreover, overly restrictive regulations stemming from diversion concerns, interrupted supply chains, short prescription durations, and limitations on imports and exports also hinder access. “To ensure controlled medicines are available for palliative care, we must build the capacity of both health systems and drug regulatory frameworks,” she emphasized.
The Working Group’s second meeting brought together dedicated professionals and experts from around the globe. Together, they addressed critical gaps in palliative care, focusing on a clear objective: to build the capacity of palliative care services and ensure patients in need have sufficient access to controlled medicines and quality services.
As the meeting in Memphis concluded, UNODC and its fellow delegates left with a renewed sense of purpose. They had forged new partnerships, refined essential strategies, and set ambitious but achievable goals. Much work lies ahead.
A Journey for Palliative Care: The History of the Working Group
The WHO Working Group on Palliative Care has a long history, beginning with the World Health Assembly’s resolution in 2014 to integrate palliative care into health systems worldwide. This commitment inspired WHO and its partners to create and implement the Essential Package for palliative care. Designed by the Lancet Commission and WHO, the Essential Package includes affordable, accessible medicines, essential equipment, and a skilled healthcare workforce—all aimed at relieving suffering for patients facing severe illnesses.
