Palliative Care Services
Palliative care is an approach to care for those living with a life limiting or life threatening illness, who may have unmet needs, or quality of life issues.
Palliative care is initiated usually in the last year of life for someone dealing with a chronic illness, or may be offered to those in acute situations, as well as those who are at end of life. Palliative Care is a philosophy of care and a person/family centered approach is the foundation.
This approach honors people’s values and health care wishes by promoting autonomy, dignity and control, as well as shared decision-making.
Palliative Care Services at the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital are broad and may include:
- Assistance with symptom management based on best practice guidelines;
- Discussions with patients and families regarding advance directives, values and goals of care;
- Assistance with comprehensive discharge planning for those with complex needs, or those wishing to die at home;
- Emotional, psychological and spiritual support;
- Referral to community services for optimal support;
- Advocacy and support for patient and family to navigate health care services;
- Education and information.
Referral for Palliative Care Services can be made by a Physician, Nurse, other allied health professional, or by the patient and family themselves.
Advance Care Planning Guide
Palliative Care Booklet
Contact Information:
GWM Site – Palliative Care Department: 613-267-1500 ext. 2180
Or via e-mail at palliative@psfdh.on.ca
Smiths Falls Site – Palliative Care Department: 613-283-2330 ext. 2180
Or via e-mail at palliative@psfdh.on.ca