Palliative Care
Palliative care is the care of people who have a life-threatening illness that cannot be cured.
Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients and their families. Care is provided to prevent and relieve pain and suffering. Physical, psychosocial and spiritual supports are also available
Palliative care can be delivered in hospitals, homes and nursing homes. Patients can choose the location where they are most comfortable.
Palliative Care at Goulburn Valley Health
GV Health offers inpatient palliative care at our Graham Street, Tatura and Waranga campuses. At each facility care is provided by a multidisciplinary team of health professionals. The team includes specialist physicians in palliative medicine, palliative care clinical nurse consultants, doctors in training, nurses and allied health professionals. Allied health professionals might include occupational therapists, dietitians and social workers.
In addition to inpatient care, GV Health’s Palliative care service provides a range of support for outpatients. Outpatient palliative care services include clinics, inreach consultation and community support for sub regional palliative care services.
Who can receive palliative care and when is it useful?
Many people believe palliative care is only for people with cancer, or for a very short time at the end of life. In fact, palliative care is available for anyone with difficulties related to a life-limiting illness. It and can be helpful for many patients and families from diagnosis, right through to the final days of life. Receiving palliative care does not prevent you from having other medical treatments that are helpful for your health and wellbeing. We work together with your other care providers to enhance your quality of life.
How long will I stay in the Inpatient Palliative Care?
Like any hospital stay, this varies from person to person depending on your health condition, symptoms, and care needs. Some patients stay for a short length of time, others for up to a week or two. Some patients are able to be discharged and can return to their usual accommodation with or without additional support. Some patients transition into residential care. Other patients may remain in the unit for end-of-life care.
How do I access palliative care at GV Health?
The team looking after you at GV Health may suggest involving palliative care in your treatment plan. You are also welcome to ask your doctor or nurse in the hospital about contacting our team if you think we can help with your care.
How do I access palliative care at home?
Patients requiring palliative care after discharge from hospital can be supported by a specialist community palliative care service, together with your own General Practitioner (GP). The appropriate referrals will be arranged before discharge.
Where can I get more information?
For information about palliative care for a current inpatient at GV Health, speak to your treating team.
For information about community palliative care service, contact Hume Region Palliative Care Consortium.
For general information contact your GP, relevant health professional or the Palliative Care Advice Service.
For further information about palliative care or to locate a service in Victoria visit Palliative Care Victoria.
- ADDRESS
Goulburn Valley Health
Graham Street
Shepparton, 3630
- CONTACT
Emergency: 000
Phone: 03 5832 2322
Nurse on call: 1300 60 60 24
for non life threatening injury/illness