APS Bank has sponsored a job shadowing programme for healthcare professionals, organised by Hospice Malta. This initiative reflects APS Bank’s commitment to supporting lifelong learning, one of the pillars of their CSR programme, to enhance the professional development of individuals who deliver essential palliative care. During October 2024, the programme saw two healthcare professionals, Arianna Debono – Physiotherapist and Joanne Galea – Nurse, undertake a five-day placement at North London Hospice, England.

During the placement, these healthcare professionals had the opportunity to observe North London Hospice’s multidisciplinary approach to care, focusing on both the medical and psychosocial aspects of palliative services. The programme included home visits, participation in team meetings, exposure to a palliative care inpatient unit, and day clinic experiences. The goal was for the professionals to gain exposure on the diverse service provisions, engage in direct patient contact, and understand the role of documentation in generating care reports, while observing team dynamics in a clinical setting.

Speaking about the programme, Hospice Malta Chief Clinical Officer, Anna Frendo, commented, “Through this learning experience the clinical professionals shall also be able to suggest and plan new services for Hospice Malta patients and their families.”

APS Bank emphasised the importance of this training programme, with Rachael Blackburn, Head of Culture  stating, “We are proud to support Hospice Malta’s job shadowing programme, which enables local healthcare professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge in the essential area of palliative care. By investing in these professionals, we are investing in better care for our community.”

Hospice Malta offers palliative care services to patients suffering from cancer, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis and other chronic illnesses, providing comprehensive support through a multidisciplinary team. These services, which are also available to the patients’ relatives, are provided free of charge in Malta and Gozo.

For more information about Hospice Malta and their mission and how one can donate, please visit www.hospicemalta.org.