Česko lepším místem pro lidi v závěru života i díky filantropii. Jak nadační fond Abakus přispěl k rozvoji paliativní péče?

Czechia is becoming a better place for people at the end of life — with help from philanthropy. How has the Abakus Foundation contributed to the development of palliative care?

Abstract

The article presents the development of palliative care in the Czech Republic over the past decade and analyzes the key role of philanthropy—particularly the Abakus Foundation (formerly the Avast Foundation)—in supporting this systemic transformation. Palliative care has evolved from a marginal and little-known field into an important component of the Czech health and social care systems. The foundation has invested more than CZK 300 million in the development of hospice care, palliative care within healthcare facilities and social services, as well as in professional education and the dissemination of best practices.

The text describes the gradual expansion of specialized services—from supporting hospices and establishing hospital-based palliative care teams to developing palliative care in nursing homes, general practitioners’ offices, and long-term or follow-up care facilities—alongside efforts to support and develop professionals in the field. Abakus programs have led to a significant increase in the number of trained professionals, the creation of methodological guidelines, improvements in staff education, and greater accessibility of end-of-life care.