DrLayla Edwards

Palliative care (PC) is integral to universal health coverage (UHC) as it alleviates suffering and enhances the quality of life. However, its accessibility and integration into healthcare systems remain inconsistent globally. Evaluating PC development offers critical insights into health system capacities, especially in addressing serious health-related suffering. This first Palliative Care Atlas for the Asia-Pacific Regions was developed under the guidance of WHO’s Regional Offices for the Western Pacific and South-East Asia.ATLANTES WHO Collaborating Center and APHN led this project. Objectives This study aimed to establish indicators and methodologies for evaluating PC health policies, services, emphasising integration into health systems, including pediatric palliative care, professional training programs, access to opioids and essential medicines, research and community empowerment. The ultimate goal was to identify gaps, foster advocacy, and support the inclusion of PC within UHC frameworks and benefits packages. Methodology The methodology for this project was structured into four main steps. First, Building Networks of National Informants involved forming a network of consultants from key organisations like WHO Regional Offices and global, regional or national PC associations. Consultants were selected based on their expertise in PC, and the data gathered was validated. Second, Data Collection through the E-Course utilised a free online course accredited by the University of Navarra. Participants completed modules introducing PC development dimensions and indicators, providing narrative justifications and supporting documents for their responses. The third step, Analysis: Conciliation, Validation, and Endorsement, involved compiling and harmonising consultant data to create structured country reports, incorporating quantitative and qualitative information validated by national PC associations. Finally, the fourth step, Results Dissemination, culminates with releasing the new Palliative Care Asia-Pacific Atlas in April 2025, aimed at raising awareness, informing policy, and fostering collaboration to improve PC services globally. The ATLANTES Global Observatory of Palliative Care designed the evaluation process and compiled findings. Results The Atlas highlights the state of PC in the South-East Asia Region (SEARO) and the Western Pacific Region (WPRO), providing a detailed analysis of resources, policy gaps, and opportunities. Comparative data and infographics offer actionable insights, enabling benchmarking and advocacy for PC integration. The indicators align with global UHC objectives, enhancing the quality, equity, and transparency of PC. Chapter 1 underscores efforts to empower individuals and communities, with initiatives such as ACP in Australia and Singapore promoting patient autonomy. Chapter 2 details progress in health policy, where 16 countries have updated their PC strategies, and Malaysia exemplifies integration through a comprehensive national framework. Chapter 3 reviews research activity, noting limited publications but a growing interest and initiatives, such as those in Thailand and New Zealand. Chapter 4 addresses disparities in the availability of opioid and essential PC medicines, particularly in rural areas, with regulatory and awareness barriers hindering access. Chapter 5 examines PC education, highlighting its inclusion in curricula across several countries, with Japan and Mongolia setting benchmarks. Chapter 6 explores integrated health services, where full PC integration exists in seven countries, while others face early development challenges, with Thailand showcasing effective incorporation of PC into primary care. These chapters collectively illustrate the strides made and the persistent gaps, advancing the vision of equitable and accessible PC. Conclusion This first Asia Pacific Regions Atlas, WHO-SEARO and WPRO, establishes a baseline for regional PC monitoring, contributing to future enhancements in care delivery. Despite data limitations, the comprehensive evaluation highlights the immense potential for progress. This collaborative endeavour demonstrates a commitment to reducing health inequities and achieving universal access to PC.