Palliative Care Specialist at the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE Abuja) - Deloitte Human Capital Consulting

Deloitte Human Capital Consulting - Our client, the African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja), is recruiting suitable candidates to fill the position below in the Health Sector:

Job Title: Palliative Care Specialist

Location: Abuja (FCT)
Job type: Full-time

About the Client

• The African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja), a quaternary-level multi-specialty medical institution developed by Afreximbank aims to revolutionize healthcare in Africa. Established to address critical gaps, the AMCE Abuja is committed to providing world-class care through innovative research, development, and education.
• The Centre will offer comprehensive services in oncology, haematology, cardiovascular care, and general healthcare across the continent, with plans for expansion. The construction phase, supported by global partners, precedes a phased rollout over six years, evolving into a 500-bed facility.
• Set to commence operations in early 2025, this flagship facility in Abuja is a key part of Afreximbank’s network of healthcare facilities, actively countering brain drain, reducing medical tourism by offering advanced procedures such as stem cell transplantation and state-of-the-art treatments for various diseases, and fostering employment opportunities. The vision for the AMCE initiative is to shape a healthier and more educated future for Africa.

Job Purpose

• The Palliative Care Specialist is responsible for providing compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals with cancer and haematological disorders who require palliative care services.
• The role involves managing symptoms, enhancing quality of life, and supporting patients and their families throughout the course of illness.
• The Specialist will collaborate with oncologists, haematologists, and other multidisciplinary healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive holistic care.
• This position also involves providing guidance on end-of-life care, pain management, and psychosocial support for patients and families.
• The Palliative Care Specialist is responsible for providing compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals with cancer and haematological disorders who require palliative care services.
• The role involves managing symptoms, enhancing quality of life, and supporting patients and their families throughout the course of illness.
• The specialist will collaborate with oncologists, haematologists, and other multidisciplinary healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive holistic care.
• This position also involves providing guidance on end-of-life care, pain management, and psychosocial support for patients and families.

Core Responsibilities
Patient Care and Symptom Management:

• Provide comprehensive palliative care to patients with cancer and haematological conditions, focusing on symptom relief and quality of life.
• Develop and implement individualized care plans addressing pain, nausea, fatigue, dyspnoea, and other symptoms associated with advanced cancer and blood disorders.
• Administer medications, including opioids and adjuvants, for effective symptom management, while monitoring and adjusting doses based on patient response.
• Provide holistic care, addressing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.

Collaboration and Multidisciplinary Care:

• Work closely with oncologists, haematologists, and nurses to develop and deliver comprehensive palliative care plans.
• Participate in case conferences, family meetings, and interdisciplinary rounds to ensure the integration of palliative care with ongoing treatment.
• Provide education and support to the multidisciplinary team on the principles and practices of palliative care.

End-of-Life Care and Advance Care Planning:

• Guide patients and families through the process of advance care planning, including discussions on treatment goals, do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders, and end-of-life wishes.
• Facilitate conversations about death and dying, ensuring patients’ values and preferences are respected throughout their care.
• Support families in managing the emotional and psychological challenges of end-of-life care.

Patient and Family Education and Support:

• Educate patients and families on the nature of their condition, the goals of palliative care, and strategies for managing symptoms.
• Provide emotional and psychosocial support to help patients and families cope with the challenges of chronic and terminal illness.
• Address concerns about pain management, nutrition, mobility, and the psychological aspects of living with a terminal illness.

Governance, Documentation, and Compliance:

• Ensure accurate documentation of patient care, treatment plans, and progress in line with hospital and regulatory standards.
• Maintain compliance with relevant ethical guidelines, hospital policies, and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
• Participate in audits and quality improvement initiatives to enhance palliative care services.
• Uphold standards of practice in line with national and international palliative care guidelines.

Research and Continuous Professional Development:

• Engage in clinical research, particularly studies focused on improving palliative care practices for oncology and haematology patients.
• Participate in continuous professional development activities, including attending workshops, seminars, and conferences.
• Mentor junior healthcare professionals and contribute to the education and training of medical students and residents in palliative care principles.

Requirements
Educational Qualification:

• Medical Degree (MBBS, MBChB or its equivalent) from a recognised Institution.
• Completion of Residency program
• Pass in the Primary Fellowship Examination of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) or its equivalent in the relevant specialty within the past 4 years. (For Nigerians only)

Professional Requirements:

• Valid medical license and registration
• Membership in relevant medical associations, such as the Nigerian Palliative Care Association, International Association for Hospice & Palliative Care or its equivalent

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a clinical setting, with a focus on oncology or haematology.
• Experience in palliative care, particularly in the management of advanced cancer and haematological disorders, is required.
• Experience in end-of-life care, advanced care planning, and symptom management in terminal illness.
• Prior experience in multidisciplinary team collaboration and working with patients and families in crisis or distress.

Competency Requirements:
Knowledge Requirements:

• Strong knowledge of palliative care principles, symptom management, and pain relief strategies.
• In-depth understanding of oncology and haematology, including common cancers and blood disorders.
• Familiarity with ethical and legal aspects of palliative care, including advance directives, end-of-life care, and DNR orders.
• Knowledge of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to symptom management, including opioid use, antiemetics, and adjuvant therapies.
• Awareness of cultural sensitivity in providing care to diverse populations.
• Understanding of psychosocial issues faced by patients and families in terminal illness, and effective strategies to provide support

Skill Requirements:

• Demonstrable skills in written and spoken English that are adequate to enable effective communication.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to perform effectively in sensitive situations.
• Excellent communication skills for explaining palliatives plans to patients and coordinating care with medical teams.

Personal Abilities:

• Professional attitude towards work
• Shares the AMCE’s vision.
• Proactive and organized.
• Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care.
• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers. 
• Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
• Commitment to caring for others.
• Ability to adapt accordingly.
• High levels of honesty and integrity

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.