Receiving a life-threatening or life-limiting diagnosis can be overwhelming but you do not have to face this journey alone.

“East Rand Palliative Care (ERPC), formerly known as Hospice East Rand, offers a wide range of tailor-made home-based care options to support patients and their families, from diagnosis and throughout the treatment process,” said Jonquil Siepmann, ERPC marketing and media liaison.

“Contrary to popular belief, palliative care extends beyond end-of-life care by offering clinical as well as emotional support to registered beneficiaries.”

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Here are six reasons why enlisting palliative care services early, is important:

•Palliative care is not only for end-of-life

Many people think palliative care is only for the final stages of life; this is a huge misconception.

Palliative care is about enhancing the quality of life of patients, managing symptoms, and providing emotional and spiritual support from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. The sooner ERPC becomes part of your support team, the more effectively they can assist.

• You deserve comfort and dignity from the start

Pain, discomfort, fatigue and anxiety are all common side effects of serious illness and treatment.

ERPC’s multi-disciplinary team, consisting of a doctor, nursing sisters, social workers and carers, helps manage symptoms effectively, ensuring comfort and preserving dignity, in the comfort of your own home.

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Early involvement allows them to tailor care plans to suit your lifestyle.

• Support for families

Life-threatening and life-limiting illness affects more than just the patient.

Families often feel overwhelmed, scared or unsure of how to assist.

ERPC offers practical guidance and emotional support, because full-time carers also need care

• Palliative care works hand in hand with curative treatment

Palliative care teams work in conjunction with patients’ treating doctors and specialists, meaning that they can receive palliative support while undergoing chemotherapy, dialysis or other treatments.

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The aim is not to replace medical treatment, but to support patients.

• Planning ahead reduces stress later

Connecting with patients during the early stages of diagnosis, the ERPC team can assist patients and their families with advance care planning, emotional preparation and facilitating important conversations.

This helps reduce panic, confusion and stress, creating space for peace of mind.

• Care is accessible and compassionate

ERPC is a non-profit organisation with a mission to make quality palliative care available to anyone in need.

The specialist team provide home-based care, support and counselling without the pressure of hospital settings.
For more information about ERPC and its services, call 011 422 1531 log on to www.erpc.org.za