Hospice South Canterbury

Hospice it is a philosophy of care. Their goal is to help people make the most of their lives.   Hospice cares for the whole person, not just their physical needs but also their emotional, spiritual, and social needs too. They care for families and friends as well, both before and after a death. Irrespective of where they are, this philosophy of care does not change and everything Hospice provides is free of charge. People may be referred for hospice care even while they are undergoing treatments for their illness, not just at the very end of life - however, usually people are referred at a time when it is acknowledged the illness is incurable.

However, people are living longer with incurable illnesses and in addition to care provided by GP or hospital specialist, hospice staff are able to provide specialist support in other ways e.g. controlling symptoms or providing additional advice and support to family and carers.

Hospice South Canterbury provides care  from the Waitaki River in the south to the Rangitata River in the north and from the ocean to the Southern Alps covering a population base of 56,000 people.

A Clinical Services Manager with the support of a Medical Officer manages the Hospice Service. Professionally trained nurses staff the Unit with the assistance of volunteers who not only assist with the care of patients, but also clean and cook daily meals for patients.

Hospice community staff, assisted by volunteers, support the patients and families in their own home, enabling families to care for their dying relative in the place they chose. Hospice Chaplains are available to patients and family.  A trained Bereavement Support Team assisted by volunteers is available to family members following death.

A purpose built 7 bedroom unit with twin share ensuites was officially opened on Friday 3rd July 2009 by the Prime Minister, Mr John Key

www.hospice.org.nz