A new palliative care outpatient clinic has started at Maleny Soldier’s Memorial Hospital, giving rural patients closer access to specialised end-of-life care. As a Rural Generalist with specialised skills in palliative care, Dr Bec Devereaux started the clinic to help hinterland palliative patients stay in their homes longer and not have to travel long distances for support. “We're able to have these remote patients not have to drive long distances, which are exhausting and tiring for these patients, so that they're able to have outpatient support locally in their community,” Dr Bec Devereaux said. “This gives people access to a local, dignified, caring and compassionate service during their end-of-life journeys.” The appointments offer check-ups, treatments and supports, allowing patients to stay home with their families for longer. “They get support quicker. And we've now also been able to support patients to die at home.” Ricky Lynch’s husband Joe, who was a well-known Irish poet and comedian and a cornerstone of Maleny’s community, was one of the first to be seen as an outpatient at the clinic. “His GP referred him to the palliative care unit straight away,” Ricky said. “He was lucky enough, well we both were, to have been introduced to Bec fairly early in the piece.” As Joe’s journey continued, Dr Bec was able to provide nearby medical support until he came into Maleny hospital as an inpatient. Ricky is grateful they could access care close to home, in a calm environment. “The stress of travelling and driving and everything wasn’t there.” “Yes we had sadness and we had all these horrible things that were going on, but we didn’t have stress.” Ricky also recalls the peaceful environment of the Maleny facility. “We could go for little walks around, we would sit over there on the bench, have a chat or go for a walk up, then just listen to the birds.” “I think it was just beautiful, it was dignified, calm.” Palliative care even extends into bereavement for the patient's family, and Ricky is pleased to have maintained a connection with the hospital team. “A big huge thank you, from me, from Joe and from our family and friends. Because I think it kept us sane, it could have been a different journey altogether.” |