World Hospice and Palliative Care Day

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day is observed annually on the second Saturday of October. In 2026, this date falls on October 10. This global day of action celebrates and raises awareness of hospice and palliative care, while honoring those who have died and supporting individuals living with life-limiting or terminal illnesses.

History of World Hospice and Palliative Care Day

The Worldwide Hospice Palliative Care Alliance (WHPCA) established World Hospice and Palliative Care Day to unify efforts in promoting hospice and palliative care worldwide. The day serves as a platform to highlight the need for accessible, high-quality care for all people facing serious illness. Over the years, it has grown into a coordinated global movement, with events and activities taking place in numerous countries.

A significant milestone in the history of palliative care was the 2014 World Health Assembly (WHA) Resolution 67.19 on Palliative Care. This resolution called on member states to integrate palliative care into their health systems. World Hospice and Palliative Care Day has since been used to track progress on this resolution and advocate for further implementation. The day also provides an opportunity to remember those who have died and to support caregivers and families.

Why is World Hospice and Palliative Care Day important?

Hospice and palliative care focus on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses and their families. These services address physical, emotional, and spiritual needs, helping to relieve suffering and provide comfort. Despite their proven benefits, many people around the world lack access to such care due to limited resources, lack of training, or policy gaps.

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day raises awareness of these disparities and advocates for universal access. It brings together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities to share knowledge and best practices. The day also amplifies the voices of patients and caregivers, ensuring their experiences inform care improvements.

• Pain and symptom management are core components of palliative care, improving daily life for patients.
• Psychological and spiritual support helps patients and families cope with the emotional challenges of serious illness.
• Cultural humility and ethical care ensure that services respect diverse backgrounds and values.
• Advocacy efforts push for policies that integrate palliative care into national health systems.
• Care for historically marginalized populations is a key focus, addressing inequities in access and quality.

How to Observe World Hospice and Palliative Care Day

Observing World Hospice and Palliative Care Day can involve participating in educational events, such as the complimentary virtual conference hosted by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. This conference features presentations from global leaders on topics like pain management, spiritual care, and advocacy. It also includes interactive discussions and a Palliative Story Exchange for clinicians to share experiences.

Individuals can also honor the day by remembering loved ones who have died from serious illnesses. Supporting local hospice organizations through donations or volunteering helps sustain vital services. Sharing information on social media raises awareness and encourages others to learn about palliative care.

• Attend a virtual conference or webinar focused on hospice and palliative care.
• Donate to a hospice or palliative care organization in your community.
• Share facts and resources about palliative care on social media using the official hashtag.
• Volunteer with a local hospice program to provide companionship or administrative support.
• Light a candle in memory of those who have died and in support of those living with serious illness.

World Hospice and Palliative Care Day Dates