The Sun Country Health Region is honouring Palliative Care Week May 4 to 10.
The Region offers palliative care services to all those diagnosed with a life- limiting illness. Palliative care services are a support system to help patients live as actively as possible until death.
A team of health care professionals, along with the patient, family, and caregiver, works to meet the needs and goals of the patient. This multi-disciplinary team could consist of physicians, pharmacists, nurses, social workers, clergy members, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech and language pathologists, and dietitians.
Members of the team provide a holistic approach that offers physical support as well as social, psychological, emotional and spiritual support to the patient, their family and their caregivers.
Palliative care services offer pain and symptom management, including finding relief from nausea, constipation, or difficulty breathing.
The team promotes opportunities for meaningful experiences and personal and spiritual growth as one prepares for death and dying, helping people cope with end-of-life issues with dignity and compassion.
"Death and dying may cause one to experience depression, anxiety, or stress. Our aim is to address these concerns and find ways to overcome them," says Janice Giroux, Vice President, Community Health for Sun Country Health Region.
For more information on palliative care services available in Sun Country Health Region please contact a Palliative Care Coordinator at 306-637-3636 in Estevan or 306-842-6870 in Weyburn. More information is available on the Palliative Care page on the Sun Country Health Region website at www.suncountry.sk.ca
