Palliative care stands as a crucial aspect of healthcare, dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients and their families facing serious illnesses. Recognizing its profound impact, organizations like the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations (AVDF) have played a pivotal role in fostering its growth and accessibility across the United States for over six decades. AVDF’s commitment is evident through their strategic Grants For Palliative Care Programs, designed to bolster medical education, elevate patient experiences, and ensure the highest standards of healthcare delivery.
The legacy of AVDF in palliative care is deeply rooted in their early support for Connecticut Hospice. This pioneering institution marked the inception of hospice care in America in 1976 and acted as a catalyst for the nationwide hospice movement. Building upon this foundation, AVDF launched a targeted pilot program in 2017, specifically aimed at funding initiatives that enhance both the quality and reach of palliative care for all Americans in need.
Continuing their dedication, the AVDF Board of Trustees in 2021 reaffirmed their commitment to palliative care by maintaining funding for related initiatives. It’s important to note that AVDF currently operates on an invitation-only basis for its palliative care program grants and does not accept unsolicited applications in this area.
Spotlight on a Grant Recipient: The Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC)
Despite the well-documented advantages of palliative care – including patient-centered care aligned with individual goals, improved quality of life, effective symptom management, and greater satisfaction for both patients and their caregivers – access to these vital services remains limited for many who could benefit. The Center to Advance Palliative Care (CAPC) has emerged as a national leader in expanding palliative care programs within hospitals and community settings. CAPC’s ongoing mission is to ensure that all seriously ill patients have access to high-quality palliative care.
A significant grant exceeding $500,000 from AVDF is empowering CAPC to undertake three key projects. These initiatives are strategically designed to improve the quality of life for specific populations that currently experience disparities in palliative care access, even amidst the field’s overall growth. These populations include Black families, children facing serious illnesses, and patients whose care is managed without the support of specialized palliative care teams. For deeper insights into this impactful work, further details are available here.
