The NSW Government has announced another boost in funding to assist people approaching their end of life. The $56 million is being allocated from the 2020-21 NSW Budget in addition to the $220 million invested annually in palliative care.
From July 1 2021, an additional 5000 End of Life home support packages will be made available across NSW. Carers will be better supported to look after people who wish to die at home, or stay at home longer with the option to access case management, practical and personal care, domestic supports, and assistance with meals and transport.
Linda Hansen, Chief Executive of Palliative Care NSW said that quality palliative care requires a multi-disciplinary approach.
“We are pleased to see that the NSW Government recognises the vital role of allied health professionals in supporting the physical and mental health needs of patients at this difficult time,” Ms Hansen said.
“Extending the program of in-home support will mean that more people will be able to achieve their goal of being cared for at home.”
The total funding boost includes:
$30.4 million over four years to support multi-disciplinary approaches for end of life and palliative care to meet the needs of patients and their families and carers. This includes:
- $4.5 million per year for up to 35 additional allied health professional positions such as occupational therapists, speech pathologists, dietitians and physiotherapists, to address patients’ physical health needs and to support safe discharge from hospital so that people can be cared for at home if they choose
- $1.2 million per year, from 2021/22 to implement education and training to develop and grow the specialist palliative care workforce, and enhance capability across the health workforce
- $2 million per year to improve access to bereavement and psychosocial support services for people experiencing complex grief
$25.6 million over four years to increase End of Life home support packages across NSW, including:
- Case management and services such as; personal care, domestic supports, assistance with meals, in-home respite and transport to appointments. appointments.
- The new funding will supplement this program with an additional 5,000 packages.