Fees
There are no patient fees for this service
Referrals
**Preferred Referral method is via the patients GP, specialist or other medical professionals, including medical details. Families and/or Carers can phone for information and details of referring.
All internal referrals, except in exceptional circumstances are to be discussed with and approved by the Nurse Manager and Clinical Co-Ordinators. Referrals may be received from other units, community and district agencies, and private general practitioners.
Referring from outside Bendigo Health requires a letter/details from the referring agency or referral by phone, followed by further details.
The Hospice Evaluation unit is a specially designed 18 bed facility.
10 beds provide specialist palliative care to patients with a life limiting condition, who no longer need acute care.
Hospice care can include end stage care, symptom relief (including radiotherapy), assessment and respite.
8 beds are for people needing assessment and a slow rehabilitation program to get home (GEM).
The philosophy of the Hospice is to provide a service that recognises, respects and responds to the individual needs of the terminally ill patient and those who support them. Staff aim to meet the physical, emotional, spiritual and social needs of the patient whilst providing support to the family and caregivers. They also assist the patients by preventing or reducing pain and alleviating other symptoms, as well as offering a realistic opportunity to die in a home-like environment.
The unit has been designed to meet the needs of palliative care patients and their families, providing 10 single rooms with ensuites. In addition to the well-equipped common rooms there are private areas, peaceful gardens and quiet rooms.