Celebrating four years of outstanding service at Bethesda Hospital
Wednesday, 31 March 2010
Federal Member for Curtin Julie Bishop joined Bethesda Hospital staff and guests last night in celebration of its Palliative Care Program’s 4th birthday.Bethesda Hospital’s palliative care team has a long history in caring for those individuals who require relief from suffering, treatment of pain and fostering a strong support system that encourages quality of life.
“Providing care which improves the quality of life for those facing serious and complicated illness is vital and the Palliative Care Unit at Bethesda Hospital offers significant support and comfort in the final stages of treatment,” Ms Bishop said.
“Until one has personally experienced the effect serious illness can have not only on an individual but on their family it is hard to appreciate how fundamental palliative care is for ensuring comfort and peace of mind.
“There is a need for greater awareness and understanding of the benefits of palliative care and the issues which confront both the public and health profession.
“I applaud and congratulate Bethesda Hospital and its Palliative Care Program in providing high quality care to those individuals suffering and coming to terms with their illness,” she said.
Upon the closure of the Cancer Council Cottage Hospice in Shenton Park in 2006, Bethesda Hospital opened its Palliative Care Unit with 9 public and 4 private beds.
Today Bethesda Hospital operates a 17 bed Palliative Care Unit comprising of 13 public and 4 private beds.
In response to increased demand, plans are in place for the expansion of the palliative care service from Bethesda Hospital.
