Bristol University’s Department of Palliative Medicine has received a major international award for its educational programme.

The 2004 University Award by the International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care (IAHPC) based in Houston, USA, is given to a university in recognition of its educational programme in palliative care and is open to universities all over the world.

Bristol’s Department of Palliative Medicine was established in 1993 under the leadership of Professor Geoffrey Hanks. The goals of the programme are to develop education and research in palliative medicine and to provide clinical care to patients in the United Bristol Healthcare Trust.   The Palliative Medicine curriculum is closely linked with the teaching of communication skills and ethical issues. Palliative Medicine is represented, or taught, in every year of the five-year course. Teaching is directed by Dr Karen Forbes, Consultant and Macmillan Senior Lecturer in Palliative Medicine, who was elected as the Clinical Tutor of the Year in 2001, 2002 and 2003 by University medical students.

The University also provides an MSc in Palliative Medicine for qualified doctors who have experience of working in palliative care and who wish to pursue a higher degree involving a research dissertation.  In addition, several of the modules are open to students of other disciplines who wish to participate and learn about certain specific topics.

Professor Gareth Williams, Dean of Medicine and Dentistry, said: “This is great news and a major accolade for the department.  It is also a great personal distinction for Karen and confirms her international profile in the field of undergraduate and postgraduate education.”