'Leadership skills need to be learned and practiced in all domains. These superb physicians are applying their talents to change societies, educational and medical organizations, and to improve the experiences of families in need,' said Dr. Frank D. Ferris , FAAHPM, Director of the International Programs at San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine. 'We truly believe that by providing physicians these crucial leadership skills, they will create the spark that spreads the foundation of global palliative care.'

In fact, over the past years, LDI participants have reported impressive new growth in palliative care awareness and activities in their communities, such as the creation of new Palliative Care Units; the development of foundational palliative care curricula in nursing and medical schools and more formal integration of palliative care into National Health Care Plans. Research, publications, and abstracts shared in regional Palliative Care Association meetings provided opportunities to share ideas, vision, and practical steps toward success. These stories of success inspire all of us working toward the advancement and implementation of palliative care, but especially for those working in low-resource countries.
 
'These physicians bring their dedicated hearts and minds to the challenge of an increasing global palliative care need,' said Dr. Shannon Moore, Co-Director of the Leadership Development Initiative at San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine. 'They are already producing powerful forward movement and positive impact on our global palliative community.'

To view the LDI video and learn more about this revolutionary leadership initiative, please visit: http://www.palliativemed.org/Leadership-Development-Initiative.

About San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine
San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine is one of the largest community-owned, not-for-profit hospices in the country, bringing compassionate, expert medical care to 1,000 seriously ill adults and children each day throughout San Diego County. In addition, more than 12,000 individuals annually receive grief and loss support through the Center for Grief Care and Education at San Diego Hospice. For more information, visit www.sdhospice.org or call toll-free 866-688-1600. Join our online communities on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest , Google+ , YouTube and The Caregiver's Corner blog .