It was the inaugural meeting of the Push for Palliative campaign in the Highlands, a campaign Dr McMaster has been at the head of since 2012.

While palliative care in the Highlands is much better off compared to other regions across the country, Dr McMaster said there was still plenty of work to be done.

"We need to have a really secure after hours system so that people know they've got somebody to come and see them after hours if things go wrong," she said.

"In addition it's very clear that we need one more specialist doctor here and more specialist palliative care nursing hours. These are the ones who really know how to deal with pain and distress and the very difficult things that come up when people have cancer and other life limiting illnesses."

Dr McMaster also praised the work of the Highlands community in its efforts to establish a hospice.

"Not everybody can die at home. Often it's too hard, it's too uncomfortable (and) you need help."

During the meeting, she said if palliative care was adequately resourced, it could save the government about $140 million every year.

With another meeting in the pipeline, Dr McMaster dubbed the initial meeting a success.

"It's a very enthusiastic group (and) a very interested group who really have a good understanding of the needs for people when they're reaching the end of their lives."

Visit https://morefundsforpalliativecare.wordpress.com to learn more about Dr McMaster's campaign.