ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM)

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM) is a specialised qualification designed for learners who wish to develop advanced knowledge and skills in the field of palliative and end-of-life care. As healthcare systems worldwide continue to prioritise compassionate, patient-centred approaches, the demand for qualified professionals in palliative medicine is steadily increasing. This diploma offers a strong foundation in both the theoretical principles and practical applications needed to provide effective care for patients with life-limiting illnesses.

This programme explores key areas such as pain management, symptom control, ethical decision-making, communication with patients and families, and the integration of multidisciplinary care. By focusing on holistic well-being, learners gain the ability to address not only physical health challenges but also emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs. The course is designed to prepare healthcare professionals, caregivers, and those in related sectors to deliver high-quality support in diverse medical and community settings.

Recognised for its professional relevance, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine equips learners with practical insights that enhance their ability to contribute meaningfully within hospitals, hospices, residential care facilities, and home-care environments. The qualification also supports career progression by strengthening professional expertise in a sector where compassionate care and clinical competence are equally essential.

With ICTQual AB’s commitment to delivering internationally recognised qualifications, this diploma ensures that learners receive quality training aligned with global healthcare standards. Whether learners aim to advance within their current role, move into specialised palliative care, or prepare for higher-level studies, this programme provides the knowledge, confidence, and skills to make a lasting impact in the field of palliative medicine.

Course overview

Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: Learners are recommended to have a Level 2 qualification or equivalent in a relevant healthcare, social care, or science subject.
  • Work Experience: Learners with prior experience in healthcare, nursing, social care, or hospice support will find it easier to contextualise theoretical knowledge and apply practical skills.
  • English Proficiency: learners must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
  • Technical Requirements: Access to a reliable computer, laptop, or tablet with an internet connection.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Principles of Palliative Medicine
  2. Pain and Symptom Management
  3. Communication and Patient-Centred Care
  4. Ethical and Legal Considerations in Palliative Care
  5. Multidisciplinary Approaches in End-of-Life Care
  6. Community and Hospice Care Practices

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Principles of Palliative Medicine

  • Understand the fundamental principles and scope of palliative medicine, including its role in improving quality of life for patients with life-limiting conditions.
  • Analyse the psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of patient care in palliative settings.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of palliative care models and their application across hospitals, hospices, and home-care environments.

Pain and Symptom Management

  • Develop skills to assess and manage physical symptoms, including pain, nausea, fatigue, and breathlessness.
  • Apply knowledge of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for symptom relief.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of symptom management strategies and adapt care plans accordingly.

Communication and Patient-Centred Care

  • Demonstrate effective communication techniques with patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Recognise the importance of empathy, active listening, and emotional support in end-of-life care.
  • Support learners in facilitating informed decision-making and maintaining patient dignity and autonomy.

Ethical and Legal Considerations in Palliative Care

  • Understand ethical principles relevant to palliative care, including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice.
  • Examine legal frameworks surrounding end-of-life decisions, advance directives, and patient consent.
  • Apply ethical reasoning to complex situations in palliative medicine.

Multidisciplinary Approaches in End-of-Life Care

  • Explore the roles of various healthcare professionals in providing comprehensive palliative care.
  • Develop skills to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams to enhance patient outcomes.
  • Understand strategies for care coordination, referral processes, and resource management.

Community and Hospice Care Practices

  • Examine the delivery of palliative care in community and hospice settings.
  • Understand the importance of family involvement, volunteer support, and community resources.
  • Apply knowledge of best practices in end-of-life care to support both patients and their families effectively.

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM) equips learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills required for careers in palliative and end-of-life care. Upon completion, learners will be prepared to advance academically, pursue professional development, and explore a variety of career pathways in healthcare, hospice, and community settings.

Academic Progression

  • Learners can progress to higher-level qualifications, such as the ICTQual Level 4 Diploma in Palliative Medicine or related health and social care programmes.
  • Provides a strong foundation for studies in Nursing, Healthcare Management, Medicine, or Public Health.
  • Supports learners aiming for specialised certifications or advanced training in palliative care, hospice management, or pain and symptom management.

Career Progression

  • Opens opportunities for roles in hospices, hospitals, community healthcare services, and home-care settings.
  • Learners may pursue positions such as:
    • Palliative Care Assistant
    • Hospice Support Worker
    • End-of-Life Care Coordinator
    • Community Healthcare Worker
  • Equips learners with the skills to work in multidisciplinary teams, supporting both patients and families effectively.

Professional Development

  • Enhances the learner’s ability to contribute to compassionate care initiatives, patient advocacy, and healthcare quality improvement.
  • Strengthens leadership, communication, and teamwork skills for coordinating care and managing patient support programmes.
  • Encourages continuous learning to stay updated with emerging trends, clinical guidelines, and best practices in palliative medicine.

FAQs

This diploma is suitable for learners who are interested in working in palliative care, hospice support, or healthcare services that provide end-of-life care. It is ideal for both those starting a career in healthcare and those looking to enhance their professional skills in patient-centred care and symptom management.

  • Minimum age of 18 years.
  • Recommended Level 2 qualification in healthcare, social care, or a related subject (not mandatory).
  • English proficiency sufficient to read, write, and communicate effectively; non-native speakers are recommended to have IELTS 5.0 or equivalent.
  • Prior experience in healthcare, social care, or hospice work is compulsory.

ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM) is 30 Credits training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Palliative Medicine (Dip PM) consist of 6 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%