Pilot program launched to improve end-of-life choice

Research by The Grattan Institute suggests there is an unmet need for at-home palliative care services. Some 70 percent of Australians would prefer to die at home, however less than 15 percent do so.

Cheryle Royle, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of St Vincent’s Private Hospital Brisbane, which operates Queensland’s largest palliative care inpatient unit and a Specialist Palliative Care Community Service, says palliative care in Australia is facing some serious challenges, including a lack of funding and private sector involvement.

“Bupa has stepped in to help address this need and provide choice for patients who want to receive palliative care at home, where they can be with family and friends – which we know can improve their quality of life,” she says.

“Without these options, many people find themselves pulled into the hospital system at the end of their life, which can be traumatic for them and their family.”

Dr Dwayne Crombie, Managing Director of Bupa Health Insurance, points out with an ageing population, it is becoming increasingly important models of care that provide people with dignity, respect and the choice to receive palliative care where they want are explored.

“We know that people who receive early and appropriate palliative care at home can have an improved quality of life with fewer symptoms and longer survival than those managed in an acute hospital setting,” he says.

Eligible patients referred to the program will receive a comprehensive assessment by the Specialist Palliative Care Team at St Vincent’s Private Hospital Brisbane, either at the patient’s home or at the hospital. A care plan is then developed for the patient in conjunction with their carer or family.

The individualised program will include:

• specialist palliative care multidisciplinary assessment and advanced care planning
• at-home specialist palliative care as required from physicians, palliative care nurses, and allied health professionals such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and counsellors
• intensive specialist palliative care which may include physician and nurse visits as well as additional at-home nursing support
• 24/7 telephone support access for patients, carers and family
• direct access to the hospital’s Palliative Care inpatient unit if required, avoiding any need to present at the Emergency Department

St Vincent’s Health Australia and Bupa will evaluate the pilot on outcomes including the patient’s experience receiving palliative care at home compared to in hospital, the number of patients who received palliative care at their preferred location, and health care costs.

For more information about the pilot program contact Community Palliative Care Services Manager Annabelle May on 07 3240 1168 or fill out the online form.