There is no doubt that, given adequate support in community, most people with terminal illness would prefer to be cared for in their own beds and in the bosom of their families. It is a win-win situation - while hospital stay and health care cost can be reduced, patients can enjoy better quality of life.
The needs of people with terminal illness staying at home and their families include 1. Adequate symptom management, 2. Psychological and spiritual support, 3. Practical advice and support for caregiver, and 4. Access to information and community resource. All along palliative home care has been serving a crucial role in this part of a patient’s journey. As a case manager, the home care nurse also helps patients and families to navigate through different sets of services and supports available.
Existing community support for terminally ill patients from Hospital Authority would be covered in this session. We would also discuss on the current and anticipated opportunities and challenges.
