Beyond the Classroom : SIP Chronicles. Magazine by PGDM Batch 34.
A JOURNEY OF LEARNING
By Athul Krishna M S | PGDM Batch 34, FK- 4116| February 2026
From the beginning, I was welcomed into a supportive environment by the healthcare team, including nurses, staff members, and coordinators. Their dedication, patience, and compassionate approach towards patients made me realize the true value of service and teamwork in community healthcare. One of the most impactful aspects of my internship was participating in home visits along with the palliative care team. During the program, I visited around 16 patients in areas such as Maradu, Vyttila, Nettor, and Palarivattom. These visits gave me direct exposure to the physical, emotional, and social struggles faced by patients and their families. I understood that many of them depend entirely on such services for their daily care and emotional support. One particular experience that deeply moved me was visiting a patient who was in a very critical condition and completely dependent on others for basic needs. Despite being in pain, the patient responded with a gentle smile when the nurse interacted kindly and provided care. That moment made me realize how powerful compassion and human connection can be. It was not just the treatment, but the way the care was given—with patience, respect, and empathy that made a difference. This experience stayed with me and changed the way I view healthcare and human relationships.
Another significant activity was community profiling through tele-calling, where I contacted approximately 127 patients from different zones.
This helped me improve my communication skills and taught me how to interact with patients sensitively and respectfully. Through these conversations, I realized how important it is for patients to feel heard, supported, and connected. The orientation sessions conducted provided valuable insights into holistic healthcare. I learned that palliative care is not only about treating illness, but also about improving the overall quality of life by addressing emotional, psychological, and social well-being. This understanding helped me develop a more compassionate and patient-centred outlook. I also attended the IMA General Body Meeting, which gave me exposure to professional discussions and collaboration within the healthcare sector. Additionally, preparing a Job Description Coordinator for the helped role me of Community understand the organizational structure and managerial aspects of a non-profit organization. Overall, this internship strengthened my empathy, communication skills, and sense of social responsibility. My time at Arike Palliative Care has left a lasting impression on me and taught me that even small acts of kindness and care can bring comfort and hope to those in need.