(Strathroy, ON) – SMGH is excited to share the news that on June 26, 2019 it celebrated the grand opening reveal of our new Palliative Care Suite. SMGH has been providing palliative care services for decades and now is able to continue to do so in a home like, serene setting that provides privacy and comfort for both the patient and family.
Palliative Care is an approach to care that improves quality of life by providing a full range of services for people who are in the final stages of their illness. Palliative Care or End of Life Care focuses on maintaining dignity and quality of life, pain and symptom management and support for families and caregivers through this difficult period.
Included in this suite are many of the comforts of home including a walk in shower in the bathroom, a couch and chair that each pull out to a bed and a kitchenette. Ensuring both patient and family comfort in a home like setting was a clear priority.
The grand opening was possible through the commitment made by the Rotary Club of Strathroy and generous donations from many individuals and organizations. The grand opening on June 26 provided the opportunity for many of these individuals to tour the new Palliative Care Suite.
“This Palliative Care Suite is the result of a journey that began in October 2017 and continues with the care that our staff and physicians are able to provide each and every day,” said Rosemary Frketich, VP Clinical Services and CNO. “I am so proud to be able to provide this home like setting for patients and families in our community.”
Dr. Phil Vandewalle, Chief of the Department of Medicine added, “SMGH has provided palliative care for many years. The creation of a palliative care suite will enhance this care, ensure standardization and support continued service to our community”.