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National Palliative Care Week: Glengarry Private Hospital promotes importance of high-quality care

May 19, 2022

Glengarry Private Hospital staff are promoting the importance of high-quality palliative care as part of National Palliative Care Week from May 22 to 28.

This year the theme of National Palliative Care Week is ‘it’s your right’.

Palliative Care clinical nurse manager, Julie Andrew, said the theme highlights the importance of all Australians to have access to high-quality palliative care.

“Many people think palliative care is just for those at the end of life – but it is so much more than that,” Ms Andrew said.

“The specialised service can be helpful at every stage of a life limiting illness.

“Palliative care is holistic care across all ages.”

Ms Andrew said the aim of Glengarry’s palliative care service is to improve the quality of life of patients, their families and their caregivers.

Director of Clinical Services Karen Cunliffe said as well as raising awareness, National Palliative Care Week is an opportunity to recognise the valuable contribution of palliative care staff.

“Our team of specialist nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, pastoral care workers and volunteers are dedicated to ensuring quality and coordinated care is provided to patients.”

Ms Andrew said it is a privilege to be part of a patient and their family’s life at such a poignant time.

"It really puts things in perspective,” Ms Andrew said. "The role requires empathy and compassion."

The Glengarry Private Hospital palliative care team.