THE ROLE OF AN ACADEMIC PALLIATIVE CARE LEAGUE: A DESCRIPTIVE ACCOUNT OF AN EXTENSION PROJECT

Abstract

Objective: To describe the outreach activities carried out by an Academic League of Palliative Medicine (PALLIUM), explaining its operation, membership criteria, and impact on the training of medical students. Methodology: This is a descriptive, observational study with a documentary and field approach. Institutional documents of the League were analyzed, such as minutes, planning documents, event records, and outreach projects, in addition to direct observations of practical activities, such as discussion groups, educational activities, and scientific events. The League is composed of students from different periods of the Medicine course, under the guidance of professors and health professionals. Results: Among the actions developed, awareness campaigns, interventions in public spaces, and dialogue sessions with the community stand out, promoting health education and discussions about death and humanized care. A lack of knowledge about palliative care among the population and health professionals was observed, reinforcing the importance of outreach activities in disseminating accessible information. Discussion: The activities have contributed to the development of critical thinking, scientific reasoning, and communication and ethical skills among academics, in addition to integrating teaching, research, and outreach. The experience demonstrates how academic spaces broaden humanized training that is sensitive to social needs. Conclusion: It is concluded that the experience strengthens the role of academic leagues as environments for knowledge management and pedagogical innovation. PALLIUM's actions also align with the National Palliative Care Policy, strengthening its educational actions and comprehensive medical training.