Palliative care
What is palliative care?
Palliative care refers to end-of-life care that supports the individual, their family and friends. This form of care is applicable for individuals with terminal illnesses that require assistance with suffering prevention and quality of life.
Patients requiring palliative care are generally contending with terminal illnesses or serious illness. These health conditions limit mobility, movement, or impair cognitive function inhibiting the individual from being able to care for themselves autonomously.
Alongside ongoing care, palliative care is implemented by doctors, nurses, and specially trained staff to ensure additional support and care is provided. This care is focused on giving the patient relief from pain, and improving the quality of life of patients and their families.
Types of Services
Palliative care can be administered in a range of settings including:
In the home
In an aged care home
In the hospital
In a palliative care facility
Accessing Palliative Care
To access palliative care, an individual must first get a referral from their local GP, specialist or other health service. It is available to all individuals with a life-limiting illness such as cancer, dementia, chronic conditions and degenerative conditions. Once a referral has been received, the individual may search for palliative care services to suit their needs.
Costs of Palliative Care
Palliative care costs may be covered by Medicare depending on the service required. Private health insurance may also cover the cost of palliative care. Any additional costs that are not covered by Medicare or your private health insurance fund will have to be paid out of pocket.
