Palliative Care Services at Northern Health aim to improve quality of life for patients with life-limiting illness and their families, through management of symptoms, support and decision-making about future care.

In June 2018, Northern Health’s Palliative Care Service relocated from Northern Hospital Epping to a new site at Heritage Epping Gardens Aged Care Facility. The Epping Gardens unit consists of 16 large single rooms fitted with ensuites and a number of open areas including a cinema, lounge, chapel, hairdresser and sports bar for patients and their families.

The move is in the interim while new facilities for a dedicated Palliative Care Unit at Northern Hospital Epping are being planned.

The team have been working hard over the Christmas period to ensure compassionate end-of-life care and support for patients and their families during a difficult time.

After being treated at Peter Mac Hospital, Joseph Schrembi (pictured above) was in need of Palliative Care. Joseph’s family brought him to Epping Gardens on 7 December 2018, and are very happy with the care and support he has received.

Joseph’s family said, “Staff, nurses and doctors were always so kind and caring for Joe. The facilities at Epping Gardens are always clean and well looked after with many zoned areas for family and friends to be comfortable whilst visiting. We would definitely recommend Epping Gardens in the future.”

Featured image: Joseph and his family enjoying the outdoor space at Epping Gardens.