July 2004

Hospice helps patients in the western suburbs

The new Mercy and Western Day Hospice will help patients with a terminal illness and their carers.

A joint pilot project between Western Health and Mercy Western Palliative Care the day hospice is based at Sunshine Hospital.

It provides a relaxed and supportive environment in a setting staffed by a multi-disciplinary team.

Western Health Chief Executive Officer Jon Evans said the day hospice created an environment in which patients and their families felt supported and allowed patients to take part in a range of relaxation and creative tasks.

‘We have noticed demand for both community and hospital-based palliative care services is rising, predominantly due to rates of cancer,’ said Mr Evans.

‘An extensive service system exists within the western region, including inpatient palliative care beds at Sunshine Hospital and Werribee Mercy Hospital and the community services offered by Mercy Western Palliative Care.

The day hospice complements these services,’ said Mr Evans.

The hospice is staffed by an experienced, multi-disciplinary team that works with patients and existing providers to identify patient needs.

Care may include symptom control, respite, leisure and recreation activities and counselling and psychological support.

Mercy Western Palliative Care Chief Executive Officer Noala Flynn said the hospice was a welcome initiative for local residents with palliative care needs as it would add to existing services and enable families to have increased community support as they cared for their loved ones.

‘It will provide families with the opportunity to have a rest from the caring role while their loved ones are being looked after.

‘At the same time, it will give patients a chance to interact with other people with similar health conditions and participate in a range of both relaxing and fun activities,’ said Mrs Flynn.

The hospice is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Up to 10 people will use the service daily.

The hospice has been funded as a pilot by a Department of Human Services grant.

This and the other two hospices that have been funded will be evaluated to see how effective they are in the Victorian context.

Minister for Health Bronwyn Pike opened the centre while launching National Palliative Care Week.

• For more information about the Mercy and Western Day Hospice contact Jenni Zerafa on 8345 1226.