The impact of COVID-19 has fast-tracked an initiative to provide support to Western Australians who are dealing with palliative care or end-of-life issues.
The McGowan Government has invested nearly $100,000 for the Palliative Care Information and Support Line phone service, which launched on May 1, 2020.
This free service will be delivered by Palliative Care WA for the next six months, offering essential information and support to Western Australians who are dealing with palliative care or end-of-life issues.
As people have been coming to terms with COVID-19, there has been an increased community need for information on palliative care.
Early feedback from palliative care providers suggests that some patients are preferring to stay at home due to concerns about COVID-19.
Services such as Palliative Care WA have had a higher volume of calls from people with a life-threatening illness, worried about what their choices and care options would be if they contracted COVID-19.
Experienced operators are available on the Palliative Care Information and Support Line to discuss advance care planning, palliative care and grief and loss.
This initiative was a recommendation of the report by the Joint Select Committee on end-of-life choices: My Life, My Choice.
The service is available for anyone living with a chronic disease or terminal condition and their carers, family members and friends.
This service complements the online tools and resources available through the HealthyWA website.
The Palliative Care Information and Support Line phone number is 1800 573 299 and operates between 9am and 4.30pm, seven days a week.
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
“The Palliative Care Information and Support Line offers a person-centred approach to palliative care needs in the Western Australian community as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves.
“This phone line takes a compassionate approach to understanding the palliative care issues faced by people, their carers, and families, and provides them with essential information and support.
“The hotline will help carers, families and friends to feel more supported and provide individuals with a greater understanding and awareness of palliative care services and options in our community.”
