Referring to Palliative Care

Raising the subject of palliative care can be difficult. This is true not only for patients and their families, but sometimes for health professionals as well. It can be stressful talking about death and dying, and many may feel it is easier to avoid the subject.

Palliative care applies even in the earlier stages of an illness. It can help with many issues. It is better to refer or be referred to palliative care early if it is appropriate.

Palliative care puts the patient at the centre of care planning. It recognises the role and needs of carers and family. Palliative care professionals provide information and support to help in decisions about medical treatment and about being cared for in the place of choice.

A health professional can refer someone for specialist palliative care. Many services will also accept referrals from the patient or family carer.

Resources

Palliative Care Victoria has a Frequently asked questions section that has information on referring to specialist palliative care.
Palliative care places importance on the individual’s needs and wishes. There are Palliative Care Standards that describe patients’ rights and responsibilities regarding care.
The Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights describes the rights of patients and other people using the Australian health system.

This page was created on 26 May 2009 and is due for review in May 2011