News

Palliative Care After Hours Funding Grant

18th August, 2008

Central Grampians Palliative Care, which is based at East Grampians Health Service has been allocated $12,501 from the Department of Human Services for community palliative care after hours service provision.

This is part of the 'Strengthening Palliative Care' policy for health and community care providers, 2004-2009. The policy was developed in consultation with key stakeholders across Victoria and provides new directions for improving access for all Victorians with life-threatening illness to palliative care appropriate to their needs.

The team at Central Grampians Palliative Care has used the funds to purchase three new portable electric beds with special mattresses to enable people to be cared for in their own homes. These beds have high low; head lift and knee bend lift capabilities and are on wheels for ease of moving within the home. Also purchased were two alternating Air Mattresses and two Roho Cushions, pressure relieving devices for people lying or sitting for long periods.

In addition to helping the Palliative Care staff working after hours the funds has been used to purchase a GPS Car Navigator, Security Pendants for staff and Head Torches.

The Central Grampians Palliative Care Service cares for people with life threatening illnesses in the Ararat Rural City, the Northern Grampians Shire and the Pyrenees Shire. The service is offered 5 days per week, excluding weekends and public holidays, between the hours of 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Referrals can be made by contacting the Central Grampians Palliative Care on 53529465 or 0427 629465, or by contacting the District Nursing Service near your area of residence.