"Palliative care is an approach to care that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing problems associated with life-limiting illness," World Health Organization.
Palliative care is a type of care for people who have a serious illness. It can be offered at any point from diagnosis to near the end-of-life, and may be in addition to the treatment a person is receiving for their illness. This holistic approach to care focuses on improving quality of life and emotional well-being for patients and families.
The Niagara Health Palliative Care Consultation Service offers support with managing symptoms, organizing home or hospice care, and providing social and emotional support. The team consists of a group of physicians and nurse practitioners who offer in-person and phone consultations on a referral basis. The team works across Niagara Health’s Niagara Falls, St. Catharines and Welland sites and is dedicated to meeting the needs of patients and their families.
The team cares for people with life-limiting illnesses, such as cancer, chronic obstructive lung disease, congestive heart failure, cirrhosis and dementia, at any point between diagnosis and end of life. They stay connected with patients referred to the program, and if patients are readmitted to the hospital the team will be notified.
The program’s goals are to improve access to palliative care services and improve transitions between hospital and home or another community setting.
Read more here.
How to inquire about Palliative Care
This service is available to all patients across Niagara Health. Speak to your inpatient physician if you would like a referral to the Palliative Care Consultation Service.
If you are an oncology patient at the Walker Family Cancer Centre, click here for more information about their Palliative and Supportive Care Team.
Additional Resources
Ontario Palliative Care Network - Making Decisions About Your Care
Speak Up Ontario - Resources for Individuals and Families
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