The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine (Dip PCHM) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in delivering compassionate, patient-centred care to individuals with life-limiting illnesses. This diploma is recognised in the UK and internationally, equipping learners with the expertise needed to support patients, families, and multidisciplinary healthcare teams in hospice and palliative care settings.
The Dip PCHM provides comprehensive training in the principles and practices of palliative care and hospice medicine. Participants gain insight into symptom management, end-of-life care, ethical decision-making, and communication skills essential for interacting with patients and families during challenging times. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring learners are well-prepared to provide high-quality care that aligns with professional standards and evidence-based practice.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine provides healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge required to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to patients and their families. By emphasising practical application, evidence-based practice, and professional development, this diploma equips learners to make a meaningful impact in the field of palliative and hospice medicine.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine (Dip PCHM):
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine (Dip PCHM), offers 60 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours, including 210 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC27144-1 | Principles of Palliative Care | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27144-2 | Symptom Management and Pain Control | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27144-3 | Communication and Psychological Support | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27144-4 | Ethical, Legal, and Cultural Considerations | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27144-5 | End-of-Life Care and Bereavement Support | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC27144-6 | Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Skills | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine (Dip PCHM):
To enrol on the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine (Dip PCHM), learners must meet the following entry requirements:
Minimum Age
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment
Educational Background
- A relevant healthcare or medical qualification is required
- Equivalent qualifications demonstrating foundational knowledge in biology, health sciences, or related fields may also be considered
Experience
- Practical experience in healthcare, clinical, or patient care settings is preferred but not mandatory
- Applicants without formal experience should demonstrate strong motivation and interest in palliative care
Language Proficiency
- Proficiency in English is required for academic study and professional communication
- Applicants may need to provide evidence of English language competence, such as IELTS or equivalent, if English is not their first language
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine (Dip PCHM):
Principles of Palliative Care
- Understand the philosophy and principles of palliative care
- Recognise the scope and purpose of hospice medicine
- Apply patient-centred care approaches in various settings
- Evaluate holistic care needs of patients with life-limiting illnesses
Symptom Management and Pain Control
- Assess and monitor physical symptoms in patients
- Implement effective pain management strategies
- Evaluate patient responses to treatment interventions
- Develop care plans tailored to individual patient needs
Communication and Psychological Support
- Communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and families
- Provide emotional and psychosocial support to patients
- Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary healthcare teams
- Develop strategies to address patient and family concerns
Ethical, Legal, and Cultural Considerations
- Navigate ethical dilemmas in end-of-life care
- Understand legal frameworks relevant to palliative and hospice care
- Respect cultural diversity in patient care
- Apply ethical decision-making in clinical practice
End-of-Life Care and Bereavement Support
- Deliver compassionate end-of-life care
- Support families and caregivers through the bereavement process
- Understand grief and coping mechanisms
- Plan and implement strategies to improve patient comfort and dignity
Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Skills
- Conduct research using validated methodologies
- Apply evidence-based practice in clinical decision-making
- Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour in healthcare settings
- Develop communication, leadership, and teamwork skills for multidisciplinary practice
- Nurses, clinicians, and healthcare practitioners working in palliative or hospice care settings
- Professionals seeking to specialise in end-of-life care
- Individuals aiming to improve patient care, symptom management, and communication skills
- Healthcare practitioners planning to work in hospitals, hospices, community care, or home-based palliative care services
- Anyone interested in developing advanced knowledge and practical skills in compassionate patient care
The Centre Requirements for QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine (Dip PCHM):
- Centres must be accredited by QualCert or an equivalent recognised awarding organisation
- Must have qualified teaching staff with relevant healthcare expertise and experience
- Adequate classroom and learning facilities for theory-based instruction
- Access to practical training resources, including simulation tools for patient care and infection control
- Policies and procedures for learner support, assessment, and quality assurance aligned with UK professional standards