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:
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