The two new satellite clinics are based at GP/health centres and the hospice has plans to open more clinics across the city over the next three years.
Patients with a life-limiting or terminal illness now have the choice of being seen by the hospice’s specialist nurses at these new satellite clinics, at the hospice-based outpatient clinic or day hospice, or at home.
The hospice has also expanded its day hospice therapeutic programme to include a transfusion clinic, outpatient clinic and The Welcome Group – a weekly volunteer-led service which provides social and peer support for patients who have a life-limiting or terminal illness.
Speaking about the new patient services, nursing director Helen O’Halloran said: “The hospice is committed to delivering high quality hospice care for all, and with our satellite clinics we can offer easier access to our services closer to the communities where people and their families live.
“We are aware that we have lower referrals from these areas due a number of factors, so we are delighted to be working with lots of different partners to serve the local communities, wherever and whenever hospice care and support is needed.”
Hospice chief executive Tina Swani added: “We have developed a range of new community services to support and complement our existing high quality service. Volunteers play an important role here at the hospice and The Welcome Group is a much needed exciting addition to the day hospice service alongside the therapeutic programme.
“Our four year strategy is ‘Hospice care for all’ and with these new community services we hope to bring hospice care closer to people and to offer patients more choice.”
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