Palliative care is a holistic, person and family-centred approach designed for individuals facing an active, progressive, advanced disease, with limited prospects for cure. The primary objective is to optimise the quality of life for patients living with a life-limiting or terminal illness by identifying and treating symptoms which may be physical, emotional, spiritual or social.
Early referral to palliative care services is critical. It can not only prolong life but also significantly enhance the quality of life for patients. By providing comprehensive support, palliative care enables individuals to live as fully and comfortably as possible, even in the face of life-limiting or terminal illnesses.
The diagnosis of a life-limiting or terminal illness can be an overwhelming experience for patients and those around them. Offering practical and emotional support to families and caregivers is essential. This assistance enables them to make informed decisions and effectively navigate this challenging time.
Western Sydney Palliative Care Handbooks
We have developed two Western Sydney Palliative Care Handbooks which aim to improve patients’ access to palliative care and enhance their quality of life and that of their loved ones.
A Community handbook and Residential Aged Care handbook are available. GPs can access these to support patients and their loved ones as they navigate palliate care options. The handbooks consider cultural needs, the values and beliefs of patients when delivering palliative care and how to facilitate a dignified death.
The development of these handbooks was informed by the work undertaken by Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network, South Western Sydney Primary Health Network, Palliative Care Australia, palliAGED and CareSearch.
Healthy Western Sydney
Healthy Western Sydney is a free service directory for health professionals and community members in Western Sydney providing information on available palliative care, aged care and dementia services.
The directory is free, user-friendly and requires no login details, making it accessible for health professionals seeking resources and guidance to provide the best possible care. As a health professional, you also have access to quick links to additional helpful resources including the National Health Services Directory, Provider Connect Australia and Western Sydney HealthPathways. We encourage health professionals to visit Healthy Western Sydney to access these essential health services.
This information is correct as of 23 October 2024.