Palliative Care Program
The Palliative Care Program
began in 1995 when the Annapolis Community Health Centre identified the need
for a specialized Unit that could provide compassionate end-of-life care for
patients in the final stages of a terminal illness, and offer guidance and
support to their families and friends.
Palliative care does many things. Its
objectives are to:
- provide relief from pain and other distressing
symptoms
- affirm living and dying as a normal
process
- neither hasten nor postpone death
- integrate the psychological and spiritual
aspects of patient care
- offer a support system to help patients live
as actively as possible until death
- offer a support system to families to help
them cope during the patient's illness and in their own bereavement.
The Foundation's Palliative Care Program seeks
to preserve the dignity of the person experiencing a terminal illness. The
equipment and furnishings we purchase for the program are chosen to provide the
patient with a degree of control over his or her own care. Hand controlled
chairs, for example, let the patient get up and down without asking for
assistance. Pain pumps are available so a patient can administer pain
medication depending on need and without having to worry about excessive
dosage.
There are no restrictions on visiting in the
Palliative Care Unit, which includes a comfortable family room where family and
friends can relax in a homey atmosphere and even stay overnight if they wish.
Here are the answers to some of the most
frequently asked questions about our Palliative Care Program.
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Who can use this service?
The program is available, free of charge, to any resident of the area served by
the Annapolis Community Health Centre.
How can I access this service?
If you think you, or a member of your family, could benefit from this program,
please contact your family physician to discuss the service.
Who provides the care in the Palliative Care
Unit?
An integrated medical team working within the ACHC provides compassionate
around-the-clock care to patients admitted to the Unit. You, members of your
family and friends are also welcome to participate in the care of your loved
one.
You can rest assured that our program is consistent with other palliative care
programs within the Annapolis Valley District Health Authority, and that our
services meet provincial standards.
How can I contribute to the funding of this
program?
You can help fund the Palliative Care Program by making a donation to the
Annapolis West Health Foundation. Here's how:
- write a cheque to the Foundation today
- leave a legacy as part of our Planned Giving
Program
- participate in the special bottle return program at the Lequille Enviro
Depot.
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