Palliative Care Established in May 2000, based at Numurkah Community Health Centre. Towns that are serviced are Numurkah, Nathalia, Cobram, Yarrawonga and their districts. Heather Rice - Clinical Nurse Specialist  What do we do? Palliative Care Service ‘palliates’ or relieves pain and distress for individuals living with a life threatening illness. Palliative Care aims to comfort not to cure, in doing so improves the quality of life. Palliative Care is a free service.  Bereavement support is available for the carer and family.  Loss & Grief / Bereavement Support The Palliative Care Team’s program of care and support is extended to the bereaved family/carers/friends during the time of adjusting to life without your loved one. You will be contacted and offered support from the program.  You may decline the offer or you can choose the type of support you prefer.  Any arrangements you make can be altered, as your needs can change as time passes. Equipment Equipment is loaned out for Palliative Care clients, free of charge.  Please speak with the District Nurses or Clinical Nurse Specialist regarding this. Your Rights As a client you have the right to: Take part in the decision making regarding your care. Ensuring you receive the appropriate services which will help maintain your independence.. Live your life in comfort and with dignity in the place you choose i.e. either at home or in hospital. Receive services by trained staff with minimal delay. Be consulted regarding any change of treatment or care. Expect all information and records to be kept private and confidential.  At times information may need to be shared with other members of the Palliative Care Team and other service providers with your consent. You have the right to an advocate of your choice.  An advocate is a person who will speak for you, in consultation with you, in a situation where you do not feel confident or able to speak for yourself.  Palliative Care staff can provide you with further information. Your Responsibilities Provide, to the best of your knowledge, accurate information about your current medical problems, previous illness, medication, visits to hospital, allergies and other matters relating to your state of health in order to help staff care for you. Inform staff if consent of treatment is to be withheld/withdrawn. Seek clarification if you do not understand any information or instructions given to you. Discuss any concerns with a relevant member of the team..

Hours of Service Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. The Moira Palliative Care Team Clinical Nurse Specialists Loss & Grief Support Co-ordinator Administration Assistant Volunteer Co-ordinator / Volunteers After Hours Access An information and advice service is available for people seeking Palliative Care information outside of business hours.  Telephone 1800 811 013 to contact Caritas Christi, St. Vincents Hospital in Melbourne. Your call will be answered by trained palliative care staff. For after hours emergencies contact your GP or the nearest hospital. Contact Details: Ph: 03 5862 0558 Fax: 03 5862 0569 Mobile: 0409 510 659