BCH highlights importance of palliative care

BELLARINE Community Health (BCH) has used National Palliative Care Week (NPCW) to highlight the importance of palliative care and the growing demand for the service.

NPCW aims to deepen people’s understanding of palliative care and encourage action around end-of-life planning.

Like many providers, BCH is experiencing more demand palliative care support, particularly for those who want to die in their own homes.

Research points to a 50 per cent growth in demand across Australia over the past decade, demonstrating the importance of proactively addressing the growing needs of the community.

“Funding for palliative care is based on population, however the population data in the model has not been updated since 2017,” BCH acting chief executive officer Kathy Russell said.

Palliative care requires regular discussions with a wide range of professionals, including GPs, generalist community nurses, allied health workers, pharmacists, after-hours-medical services, ambulance services, hospital staff, DVA providers, NDIS providers, aged care package providers, interpreters, and many others.

“The unpredictable nature of death and dying requires our team to manage complex situations, such as sudden deterioration, haemorrhage, delirium, rapid transfers for end-of-life care, and coordinating large groups of family members,” BCH palliative care nurse Victoria Durbidge said.

“The rewards of palliative care nursing are substantial, encompassing the deep human connection with patients and their families, building trust-based relationships, maintaining realistic hope, respecting patient choices, alleviating or improving symptoms, and providing the privilege of being present with someone in their final moments.”

BCH says its team offers a listening ear, emotional support during times of loneliness or fear, and support for families through their grief.

If you need support or want to talk to Bellarine Community Health about palliative care, phone 1800 007 224.