A very important aspect of holistic palliative care takes place in hospices. Queensland has the highest number of hospices in Australia, which provide comfort, support and dignity to individuals who are facing a life-limiting illness or condition.
A holistic approach to end-of-life care
Hospice care prioritises enhancing the quality of life for individuals with life-limiting conditions, valuing each person’s uniqueness. It integrates medical and social aspects, emphasising community engagement and capacity building within a homely setting.
Hospice teams – comprising of doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, counsellors, bereavement specialists, educators and trained volunteers – deliver comprehensive comfort care to those nearing the end of life or grieving.
These teams collaborate with local hospitals, palliative care units and community nursing providers, ensuring smooth transitions. Hospices allow hospitals to concentrate on complex care needs that may necessitate acute facilities.
Hospices strive for a homely atmosphere, aligning with the community’s desire for end-of-life care in a familiar setting. They offer personalized, gentle care in a tranquil environment compared to hospitals or palliative care units.
Support our hospices
Queensland has the most hospices in Australia. Our hospices are supported by Queensland Health, but require the generosity of their local community. We encourage everyone to support their local hospice through whatever means they have available to them.