In this Disability Matters episode, Patrick O’Donnell and John Comiskey speak with Dr. Una Molloy, a Advanced Nurse Practitioner in palliative medicine and representative of the Irish Association for Palliative Care (IAPC). Dr. Molloy offered deep insight into what palliative care truly means and the vital role it plays in supporting people with life-limiting illnesses.
“Palliative care is about improving quality of life and it’s about really allowing people to live to their best in spite of illnesses or life-threatening illnesses or terminal illness”, said Dr. Molloy.
What Is Palliative Care?
Defined by the World Health Organization, palliative care is a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of people with serious illnesses.
“It’s about really working with people to prevent suffering where possible, working together and really working with the patient and the family to achieve goals that they would like to achieve”.
“You matter because you are you,” Dr. Molloy quoted Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern hospice movement. “And you matter until the end of your life.”
The Irish Association for Palliative Care
Founded in 1993, the IAPC brings together doctors, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, chaplains, and therapists working in the field of palliative care. It serves as a professional representative voice, advocating for best practices, supporting research and education, and promoting collaboration across Ireland and Europe.
Through forums in nursing, ethics, and education, the association contributes to national policies, such as recent guidelines on nutrition in palliative care.
A Team Approach: Pharmacists, Therapists, and Families
Many are surprised to learn that pharmacists play a critical role in palliative care — ensuring safe, effective medication management and supporting complex care plans. The same is true of occupational therapists, social workers, and psychologists, all working together to support individuals and their loved ones through a deeply personal journey.
“Our job is to accompany people — and remind them they’re not alone,” said Dr. Molloy.
Beyond Cancer: Expanding Access to Care
While traditionally associated with cancer, palliative care now extends to people with chronic conditions like heart failure, respiratory illness, and neurological diseases. Following the “Palliative Care for All” initiative in 2008, Ireland continues to broaden the scope of care to ensure “the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”
Community and Home Care
Many people wish to spend their final days at home, surrounded by loved ones. Dr. Molloy emphasized the importance of supporting families in making that possible — and called for increased home support services.
“Families are incredible. They do the hardest work — and they deserve all the support we can give.”
Education, Research & Advocacy
The IAPC is deeply committed to advancing education and research, supported by organisations like the Irish Hospice Foundation and the All-Ireland Institute for Hospice and Palliative Care. From seminars to research grants, the association works tirelessly to improve services, raise awareness, and uphold the rights of those facing life-limiting illness.
A Final Message
“Palliative care isn’t something to be afraid of. It’s something to embrace. And that if somebody you love has been referred to a palliative care team, don’t be afraid to ask questions, to open the conversations,” concluded Dr. Molloy.
🔗 Learn more about the Irish Association for Palliative Care: https://iapc.ie
Disability Matters airs every Thursday at 4PM on Phoenix 92.5FM, with repeats on Monday at 3PM and Tuesday at 7AM & 3PM. Podcast available after each show on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.