Jena, September 14, 2026 – For ten years, the pediatric palliative care team at Jena University Hospital (UKJ) has been supporting and accompanying seriously ill, severely ill, and life-limited children, adolescents, and young adults in Thuringia. As the only specialized facility of this kind in the state, the multidisciplinary team combines medical and nursing expertise with comprehensive psychosocial support for the affected families.
- Event: 10th anniversary of the pediatric palliative care team
- Location: Universitätsklinikum Jena, Bachstraße 18, 07743 Jena
- Focus: Specialized outpatient palliative care (SAPV-K) to relieve families at home
- Contact: Universitätsklinikum Jena, Phone: 03641 391184
Significance for patient care in Thuringia
At the heart of the daily work is specialized outpatient palliative care. The team supports families directly in their home environment to alleviate distressing symptoms and reduce necessary hospital stays to a minimum. This approach enables young patients to spend as much time as possible in their familiar family circle despite their serious illness. In addition to outpatient care, the team also provides valuable support during inpatient stays at the clinic.
Outpatient support and relief for families
The work of the multidisciplinary team goes beyond medical care. Physicians, nurses, psychologists, and social workers work closely together to provide holistic relief for families. In addition to pain therapy and symptom control, this includes the coordination of support services as well as providing guidance to siblings and parents during highly stressful life phases.
Background: Specialized palliative care for children
In contrast to adult palliative medicine, pediatric palliative teams often accompany patients over many years – from the initial diagnosis through the course of a chronic, life-limiting illness, to support in the final phase of life and beyond. The goal is to maximize the quality of life for the children and to strengthen families in their home care competence.
Contact and support services
Families in need of support from the pediatric palliative care team, as well as attending physicians and nursing services, can contact Jena University Hospital directly. Information and contact persons are provided by the Clinic for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine at UKJ. Telephone inquiries can be made at 03641 391184. Further details on the team’s work are available on the official website of Universitätsklinikum Jena.
Transparency note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.