Moving on from the in-patient unit

After a period of time in the hospice, it is routine to set in motion plans for patients further care and where this might take place. We are aware that this process can cause anxiety and distress. It is always undertaken in discussion with the patient, their families or carers.

The first step in making arrangements for further care will be to meet our social worker who will usually plan a meeting called a Comprehensive Assessment. The patient, family members, other important friends, the district nurse, the social services care manager and members of the hospice staff will all have the opportunity to be present. All the issues about placement, the practicalities and worries, can be discussed at this informal meeting.

The wishes of patients and families are important in planning the future place of care, but there are also issues of professional opinion and resources, which have to be taken into account.

Possible places of care for patients at this stage would be:

• Home - if a patient wishes to return home after an admission to the hospice, then the hospice will explore the practicalities of this.
• Community hospitals
• Nursing homes - particularly if discharge to the home environment cannot be achieved

With a limited number of places, it is not possible for every patient to stay for a long period of time at the hospice. The places must be used by those in particular need of specialist palliative care.

Once patients have moved on from the in-patient unit, they may continue to access the other hospice services as needed.