This year’s World Hospice and Palliative Care Day falls on October 11, uniting communities worldwide to celebrate, reflect, and call for universal access to quality palliative care.More than 60 million people need palliative care globally, yet access remains unequal, even in developed countries.

I sat down with Ed Gaudian, a leader in WA palliative care, to reflect on this year’s theme. Ed’s career has spanned emergency, ICU, hospice innovation and statewide consultancy. His first encounter with palliative care was transformative: “I viewed it from a new lens… clinical teams putting the patient first.”

He’s seen the field evolve from an oncology focus to supporting people with complex, diverse needs. But despite progress, system navigation and funding pressures remain major barriers, with many patients falling through the cracks.

New aged care standards are raising expectations for residential facilities to deliver quality end-of-life care. Ed sees this as a positive shift, supported by stronger education, community awareness and teamwork.

He reminds us that often, “it’s the smallest things that matter.” From arranging final wishes to simple acts of comfort, person-centred care is built on human connection.

This World Hospice and Palliative Care Day, let’s celebrate providers, share stories, and advocate for equitable access — so that quality palliative care truly reaches everyone

References:

Palliative Care WA

Home - Ambulance Wish Western Australia

MPaCCS (Palliative Care Consultancy Service) - Bethesda Health Care

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