Media Releases

Making a difference in Dunedin

October 2006.- Hospice New Zealand and the New Zealand Pain Society have joined forces for what will be the biggest event on the palliative care calendar for 2006.

The 17^th Hospice New Zealand Palliative Care and New Zealand Pain Society Conference is being held in Dunedin from October 26-28 at the Town Hall and Regent Theatre.

Mary Schumacher, conference convenor and Hospice New Zealand chief executive considers these conferences a wonderful benefit for the palliative care community. “It is a great opportunity for those involved in palliative care to share their knowledge and enhance their skills,” says Ms Schumacher.

“We have an exciting programme with overseas and local keynote speakers providing a strong clinical component and workshops reflecting the multidisciplinary approach to pain management and end of life care.”

In particular, local lecturer, Professor Paul Smith from Otago University will be discussing up-to-date research findings on the effects of cannabinoids on the central nervous system. Dr David Kuhl, a Canadian palliative care specialist, will discuss approaches in communication between healthcare professionals and their patients with a life-threatening illness and how the physician’s manner in communicating can affect the patient’s psychological well-being.

With relevance to the wider profession including policy makers, GP’s nurses and suppliers, the main conference will run a special half day Nurses Issues Group meeting and a specific workshop for CEO’s, Managers and Trustees.

There will be pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers and supporters and health education institutes exhibiting at the Town Hall with a full range of their products and services, these being of interest not only to delegates, but also to the general public.

For further information contact Barry Woodland, of Conference Innovators at barry@conference.co.nz or alternatively visit www.hospice.org.nz/conference-2006 for regular updates.