Community & Business
7 December, 2023
Peaceful place for Mareeba palliative patients on the way
WORKS have started at Mareeba Hospital to create a larger, more peaceful space for palliative care patients and their loved ones.
The $425,000 project involves moving the hospital’s palliative care room to a more discrete area with garden views, a dedicated ensuite, kitchenette and lounge.
Works are anticipated to be completed by mid-next year, with minimal disruption to patients, according to Director of Nursing and Midwifery Michelle Bombardieri.
“This new palliative care room will provide a space for patients and families that will be more private and peaceful while receiving end-of-life care,” she said.
“It will be a much larger space, with a lounge and kitchenette, with plenty of space so larger families can spend time comfortably with their loved one.
“It is so important that patients, families, and friends will be able to access a self-contained space for privacy at what is a difficult time.”
Ms Bombardieri said an average of five to six patients accessed the Mareeba palliative care service each month, and the upgrades would allow clinicians to continue to offer quality care to patients and their families closer to home.
“We are always thanked by the local community for the family-centred service we provide,” she said.
“We look forward to the opening of this dedicated palliative care room and facilities around the middle of 2024.”
