Partnering-the key to successfully supporting people to die at home or remain at home as long as possible in regional NSW

In December 2013, Silver Chain commenced a new Last Days of Life palliative service in regional NSW fully funded by the NSW Ministry of Health to work in partnership  with three Local Health Districts (Northern NSW, Mid North Coast and Hunter New England Local Health Districts) within a shared-care service model The primary purpose of the program is to wrap around existing generalist and specialist community palliative care services to provide additional support for people who wish to die at home or remain at home as long as possible, with medical governance remaining with the Specialist Palliative Care team or General Practitioner. The program accepts clients with all diagnoses and from all age groups and provides carers with a video device for 24/7 access to clinical advice and support. This report presents key service outcomes to date, including:

• Number of people who have access to the service

• Number of people who died at home using the service

• Geographical location where services have been provided

• Number of telehealth episodes of care

• Summary of client/carer feedback.

This reports also highlights strategic activities regarding partnering with Local Health District clinicians and General Practitioners.