Stephen Connor (psychologist)

American psychologist specializing in palliative care

Stephen Robert Connor is an American psychologist known for his contributions to the field of palliative care. He has been instrumental in advancing global palliative care policies and practices, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Early Life and Education

Stephen Connor was born in the United States. He pursued his higher education in psychology, earning a Ph.D. in the field. His early academic work focused on the psychological aspects of end-of-life care, which laid the foundation for his future career in palliative care advocacy.

Career

Connor began his career as a clinical psychologist, working with patients in hospice and palliative care settings. His experiences in these environments highlighted the need for comprehensive palliative care services and inspired him to advocate for better policies and practices worldwide.

Global Palliative Care Advocacy

Stephen Connor with Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at WHO Executive Board Meeting, 2020

Stephen Connor has been a prominent figure in global palliative care advocacy. He has worked with various international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to promote the integration of palliative care into national health systems. His efforts have been particularly focused on improving access to palliative care in resource-limited settings.

Connor has also been involved in the development of global palliative care guidelines and has contributed to numerous publications on the subject. His work emphasizes the importance of pain management, psychosocial support, and the ethical considerations of end-of-life care.

Leadership Roles

Connor has held several leadership positions in palliative care organizations. He served as the Executive Director of the Worldwide Hospice Palliative Care Alliance (WHPCA), where he played a key role in expanding the organization's reach and impact. Under his leadership, the WHPCA has worked to increase awareness and support for palliative care initiatives globally.

Contributions to Research and Education

Stephen Robert Connor at the Global Summit on International Breast Health, Vienna, Austria, 2012

Stephen Connor has contributed significantly to research in palliative care, authoring and co-authoring numerous articles and books on the subject. His research has focused on the psychological and social aspects of palliative care, as well as the development of effective care models.

Connor is also a dedicated educator, frequently lecturing at conferences and workshops around the world. He has been involved in training healthcare professionals in palliative care principles and practices, helping to build capacity in countries with limited resources.

Media Appearances

Stephen Connor discussing pain relief in palliative care, BBC World News report, 2013

Stephen Connor has appeared in various media outlets to discuss issues related to palliative care. He has been featured in interviews and documentaries, where he shares insights on the challenges and advancements in the field. His media appearances have helped raise public awareness about the importance of palliative care and the need for global action.

Related Pages

• Palliative care
• Hospice care
• World Health Organization
• Worldwide Hospice Palliative Care Alliance