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Hospice, Palliative and End-of-life Care

What Is Hospice, Palliative or End-of-Life Care

These terms can be confusing, especially when you or a loved one is dealing with a difficult diagnosis. These pages provide general definitions of hospice and palliative care as well as information about how to access palliative care, when and how palliative care is appropriate for and where to find your local hospice or palliative care service.    

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What is Hospice Care?

What is hospice care? Hospice care aims to improve the lives of people whose illness is no longer curable. It helps them to live as fully as possible to the end. It seeks to relieve the physical symptoms of illness while equally addressing the patient’s emotional and spiritual needs. Hospice care also provides support to families and those who […] Read more >

What is Palliative Care?

About Palliative Care The World Health Organisation (WHO) states palliative care improves the quality of life of patients and families 'through the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification and impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, physical, psychosocial and spiritual'  Palliative care is an approach to care focusing on promoting comfort through relieving […] Read more >

Definitions

Here are some key terms and phrases you will encounter in this website, and their definitions. Terms are presented in alphabetical order and are defined as we understand and use them in the Irish Hospice Foundation. Bereavement care - Support, information and services available to bereaved people through their families,  friends, communities, workplaces, healthcare providers and education […] Read more >

How to Access Specialist Palliative Care

 How do I Access Palliative Care ? Access to palliative care services varies across the country. Many people involved in a patient's care may suggest that referral to Specialist Palliative Care team may be helpful, these include: Patient Family members Doctors Nurses Allied Health Professionals Social worker Member of Clergy Following discussion with the person […] Read more >

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