Kerala High Court directs joint Centre-State meeting to frame SOP for child palliative care
The Kerala High Court's Division Bench, in a suo motu petition, has recommended a joint meeting between the Central and State Governments to develop a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure for care, rehabilitation and palliative support of children with chronic neurodevelopmental disabilities.
The Court emphasized that both governments are key stakeholders in addressing healthcare needs of affected children and families. It directed authorities to frame the SOP while considering concerns raised during proceedings, noting that the State Government would prepare a report for the Union.
The Bench highlighted that paediatric palliative care should begin at diagnosis and continue alongside curative interventions. It observed that such care in Kerala remains limited, largely dependent on voluntary organisations rather than an organized State-wide public healthcare system.
