Hospital Based Palliative Care Consultation Team

The palliative consultation team consists of specialist nurses and doctors who provide advice and support to teams caring for patients with life-limiting illnesses at Eastern Health. We specialise in symptom management, discharge planning (including linkage with a community palliative care service), goals of care setting and end of life care.

Referrals to the palliative consultation service are usually made via the treating unit at the hospital where the patient is being cared for.

If you would like a patient to be referred to the team, please discuss it with your nurse or doctor in the hospital.

Talk with your treating team about a palliative care consultation

Yes, the palliative care team can discuss goals of care with your father and support person, explore ways to improve his breathlessness, organise help and support at home, and make plans for his future care that may help avoid being admitted to hospital. The management and care plan will be tailored to your father’s goals and preferences.

My mother is being looked after in hospital but not getting better. I want to discuss what’s going to happen and how we can look after her if she does not improve?

My father does not have cancer, but he has emphysema and keeps getting admitted to hospital. He is very short of breath and not able to do much now. Should he see the palliative care team?