Picture taken with a group of pharmacy students enrolled in the Doctor of Pharmacy Program at C.L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, where Dr. Ebtesam Ahmed was teaching palliative care principles that prioritize pain management for patients with cancer. Photo used with permission.
Empowering Pharmaceutical Expertise in Palliative Care
Last August, I had the extraordinary privilege of traveling to Chennai, India, where I spent six transformative weeks as a participant in the Fulbright Specialist Program. This prestigious program, awarded to me by The Fulbright Program, is one of the flagship initiatives designed to foster meaningful international educational exchange. It aims to build strong and lasting partnerships between the U.S. and countries worldwide, benefiting participants, institutions, and entire communities through collaborative educational and training opportunities in various fields, including public health.
The Fulbright Specialist Program gave me the incredible opportunity to share my extensive knowledge and passion for palliative care and pain management with pharmacy students, faculty members, and healthcare professionals in Chennai. During my time at C.L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, I engaged with students and staff through a wide range of workshops, conferences, and collaborative sessions. These interactions allowed me to impart my practical experience on a variety of crucial topics within pharmacy practice, including clinical pharmacy, patient-centered care, pharmacovigilance, and public health.
Dr. Ahmed and faculty at C. L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy: Drs. Priya, Shailaja, and Dhivya engaging in a discussion about literature evaluation and journal club presentation. Photo used with permission.
'Palliative care' a new term for many
One of the most rewarding and memorable aspects of my trip was the chance to introduce the concept of palliative care to pharmacy students who had never encountered the term before. I dedicated significant time to lecturing on the core principles of palliative care and pain management, discussing not only its clinical application but also its critical importance in improving patient quality of life. The students’ curiosity and eagerness to learn were inspiring, and it was humbling to witness their newfound understanding of a field that is so vital yet often overlooked in many healthcare curricula.
Pharmacists: essential partners in care
Beyond my time spent teaching, I also visited several local hospitals where I had the opportunity to present on the role pharmacists play in palliative care and pain management. I emphasized how pharmacists, as essential members of the healthcare team, can contribute significantly to improving patient outcomes through their expertise in medication management, symptom control, and patient education. These hospital visits were a great way to connect theory with practice and provide real-world examples of how palliative care is applied in clinical settings.
I learned lessons too
Although my Fulbright Specialist Program lasted just six weeks, the relationships I formed with the students, faculty, and healthcare professionals in Chennai have left a lasting impression on me. I remain in close contact with many of the individuals I met, continuing to share knowledge as we support one another in our professional journeys. The experience not only expanded my understanding of global health but also taught me invaluable lessons in humility, kindness, and the power of cross-cultural exchange.
The next step: formal partnership
As I reflect on my time in Chennai, I am motivated to take the next step in fostering greater collaboration between our institutions. My goal now is to develop a formal memorandum of understanding between St. John’s University in New York and C.L. Baid Metha College of Pharmacy. This partnership will facilitate the exchange of resources, knowledge, and expertise, while also opening the door for student exchange programs that will enrich the academic and cultural experiences of all involved.
Dr. Ebtesam Ahmed with oncologists, medical trainee, residents, fellows, faculty, and staff at the Department of Medical Oncology and Pharmacology at Government Stanley Medical College & Hospital. Dr. Ahmed presented the talk, “Innovative Approaches to Personalized Pain and Palliative Care.” Photo used with permission.
Dr. Ahmed is a clinical professor for the Department of Clinical Health Professions at St. John’s University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in New York City, New York. Read her bio.
Read more of this week's issue of Pallinews
A Sweet Ride
Belize national palliative care association raffle raises $8,620 USD and community awareness on the back of a motorcycle. A report by its executive director, Frederico Gianelli, S.J.
Helping to Disrupt Fear
An intergenerational team—including many young people—mark World Cancer Day in Barbados by educating others on cancer control: photos & a brief report.
IAHPC News briefs
108 National Associations Given 1-Year Free Membership A total of 56 new palliative care associations have joined in this important first step of IAHPC's focus on national advocacy for improved access. Read more.
Stella Rithara at IAPCON Rithara encourages IAHPC members to attend such events in person, as "it gives us an opportunity to talk about our activities. Read more.