At the Law Office of Conrad Curry, our dedicated health law team are concerned about access to healthcare services in regional areas.
An ABC News report has highlighted a shortfall in palliative care for patients in rural and regional areas, resulting in limited end-of-life care options. The report tells the all too common story of a Queensland woman whose breast cancer had returned and metastasised. Having taken the appropriate steps of making an advance care directive and a power of attorney, the woman’s end-of-life plans included a wish to be cared for in a community hospice. However, she and her partner found that hospice care was not readily available if you live in a regional area. They struggled to find appropriate support and the woman passed away at home.
Her partner described feeling helpless and confused, describing it as a “diabolical nightmare to navigate”. The Chief Executive of Palliative Care Queensland says that, ideally, palliative care teams would work alongside specialists after the diagnosis of a life-limiting condition to make sure patients could determine what quality of remaining life looked like for them. The reality is that for many, access to palliative care is only available in the final months or weeks. There is also a real lack of after-hours care or support for carers. We echo the sentiments of Queensland GP and board member for the Fitzroy Community Hospice Dr Vicki Richmond who states “I think for too long our health system has really neglected excellent care for those at the end of life”.
We hope to see increased government investment in palliative care services for regional patients, to improve quality of remaining life and reduce stress for their families.
