Message from the Minister of Health and the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health on National Hospice Palliative Care Week May 1-7, 2022

The first week of May marks National Hospice Palliative Care Week, a time to celebrate and share achievements of hospice palliative care throughout the nation.

The first week of May marks National Hospice Palliative Care Week, a time to raise awareness of issues surrounding hospice palliative care in Canada, we are grateful to all those working to relieve suffering and to improve quality of life for those living with a life-limiting illness and their loved ones.

This year's theme is "Living in Colour". By fostering an environment of care, compassion, and comfort to ensure that each person receives the support they want and need, hospice palliative care can bring colour back to patients' and loved ones' lives.

Hospice palliative care professionals and volunteers focus on improving quality of life for as long as possible, whether that be weeks, months or years. Expertise in traditional pain and symptom management is combined with a web of social, psychological and spiritual support for both patients and loved ones. Care is provided at home or in centres that are able to adapt to the unique needs of patients and families.

Our government continues to work with provinces, territories, people living with life-limiting illness, caregivers, stakeholders, and communities to improve the quality and availability of palliative care for all people in Canada. We are also focused on improving access to long-term care, home and community care.

This week is also a time to recognize the invaluable work and dedication of the network of people—physicians, nurses, personal support workers, social workers, counsellors and volunteers, among others—who dedicate themselves to their patients well-being. The impact of your work is felt by families, friends, loved ones and across communities. On behalf of the Government of Canada, we thank you!

This week can also amplify difficult moments for many—if you are in need of hospice palliative care, if you are the friend or family member of someone in hospice palliative care, or if you are a front-line worker, we know the work and decisions involved can be stressful. Wellness Together Canada portal provides 24/7 access to free and confidential mental health and substance use services. Reach out to get the help you need.

Learn more about palliative care.

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, P.C., M.P.

Contacts

Marie-France Proulx
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos
Minister of Health
613-957-0200

Media Relations
Health Canada
613-957-2983
media@hc-sc.gc.ca

Maja Staka
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
343-552-5568