Concept of Palliative Care The word ‘ palliative’ Care is derived from the Latin word pallium, a cloak. Palliation means “cloaking over”, addressing and ameliorating the effects of the underlying cause and the intent is, healing rather than curing. Palliative care is often said to be ‘low tech and high touch’. It seeks to ensure that compassion and science are the governing forces in inpatient care. The field of palliative care is growing rapidly. A recent article from NPR Health News highlights the current state of palliative care in America and the growing need for licensed palliative care practitioners within the US to adhere to patient needs and meet the best practice standards. India has some of the highest rates of oral and oesophageal cancers, yet only a tiny fraction of those coping with life-threatening or life-limiting illnesses have access to effective pain relief. There is a lack of facilities, personnel trained in palliative care , and cultural awareness of the impo...