Abstract
There is a growing awareness of the need for improved end-of-life care around the globe. Kyrgyzstan, the second poorest country in Central Asia, is poised to begin palliative care initiatives, despite facing inadequate health care funding, lack of education about palliative care, and limited availability of necessary medications. With the combined efforts of clinicians and educators, along with support from governmental and nongovernmental agencies, a national program for palliative care is in development, and nursing is playing a leading role. The strategy to integrate palliative care includes 3 pillars: building clinical services, coordinating efforts to increase the availability of necessary drugs, and developing educational programs. As part of a coordinated educational program for nurses and physicians, several courses have been presented based on the End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium curriculum. Health care professionals, educators, and representatives of government and nongovernmental organizations have participated in these courses. The Minister of Health has subsequently approved a curriculum based on End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium for students in the college of nursing and postgraduate continuing education. The barriers faced and these educational efforts will be described as they are an essential part of a comprehensive strategy to improve the quality of life for people within this country.