Palliative Care

 

Palliative Care is the support of people suffering from an incurable illness. Our aim is to provide physical, emotional, social and spiritual support to enhance the quality of a person's life. Support is also extended to the patient's family and friends.

Many aspects of palliative care, in conjunction with other treatments, are helpful early in the course of an illness and also as the illness progresses. Palliative care encompasses the provision of an additional level of support and care during your hospitalisation. The sort of additional support available includes:

Counselling

You or your family may have difficulty coping with your diagnosis and its implications. A referral to a counsellor may be recommended to provide additional support for your ongoing care.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists will assist you maintain as much independence as possible, personalise an exercise program and complement any existing treatment to maintain your comfort.

Occupational therapy

An occupational therapist will assist you to remain as independent as possible in your daily activities. This may involve special equipment, minor home modifications, techniques and training or practises that complement your existing treatment, such as relaxation, meditation or massage.

Pastoral care

Members of the Pastoral Services team are available at any time, and offer an attentive and caring presence for you and your family. The service provides confidential personal counsel and spiritual and religious ministry.

Palliative Care Mission Statement

St John of God Hospital Bendigo embraces the Values of Hospitality, Respect, Justice, Compassion and Excellence. The Palliative Care Service aims to ensure that your comfort and health needs receive special attention and that you and your family are fully supported during your hospital stay.