A hospice is perhaps similar to a very small private hospital for a limited number of patients, but has an atmosphere more akin to a warm and friendly family home. It is permanently staffed by at least 2 nurses trained in palliative care, with special provision for family members to live-in when desired in an area adjacent to each patient. As with a hospital, the patient’s GP is able to visit and will work in collaboration with the medical consultant, nursing and allied health staff to provide best practice hospice and palliative care services.
Ideally a hospice is located in a pleasant, tranquil, low noise environment.
The Hospice will provide 6 beds for adults and 2 beds for children, all with ensuite and provision for family to stay.
The Nursing and allied health team are trained in palliative care.
Services are provided for the well being of the whole family unit, working in partnership with all health service providers and the community.
In the hospice setting, clients are able to maintain dignity and can have choices with regard to their daily living, ie staying in bed for a sleep in if they so desire, eating at a time to suit and eating what they would like.
Care is not task oriented, but revolves around the particular needs and requests of each client. Family may stay at the hospice and are welcome to participate in care if they so desire.
Volunteers from the Community will play an important role in the day to day running and fundraising of the hospice.
It is planned that the Hospice will have a beautiful garden with walking pathways which of course will be wheelchair accessible, with each room having a garden view.
Designated hospital beds are beds in a public or private hospital which have been made available for the care of palliative clients only.
There are instances where the beds may be deemed 'designated' but due to financial considerations and the shortage of beds, they may be used for non palliative clients. These beds are generally only available for less then 32 days, but this can be extended by the Medical Consultant. However, it is unlikely that these beds can be offered to a client for long term (3-6 months) care. Private Health funding does not usually extend for very much longer than the 30-40 days.