What Is Hospice Care?

What is hospice care?

Galway Hospice provides three Specialist Palliative Care Services – our Inpatient Unit in Renmore, our Community Palliative Care Services and Palliative Day Care Service.

Palliative care is an approach to care that aims to improve the quality of life of people suffering from life-limiting illnesses, and to support the person and their family. 

Traditionally, hospice care or palliative care was associated with care of patients with cancer, particularly at the end of their lives. Palliative care has changed completed in recent years, and this approach to care can be equally helpful to people who are newly-diagnosed with cancer or people who have other life-limiting conditions such as Dementia, Heart Failure, Motor Neurone Disease, etc. 

Specialist Palliative Care is focused on managing complex symptoms using a team-based approach. 

How do I access hospice services?

Our care is provided free of charge to you, and your family and carers.

If you are thinking about hospice services speak to the health or social care professional who looks after you, about how the hospice can help. Referrals are made to Galway Hospice by GPs or hospital Consultants.

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What are the benefits of Hospice care?

Hospice Palliative care can make all the difference.

It can help you and your family feel more comfortable, making sure you are cared for in the right way, so that you and those close to you have the time to do, and talk about, what matters to you most. We always have the care of everyone’s physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing right at the heart of what we do.

How do we care?

The aim of Galway Hospice is to support people to learn to live with a life limiting illness. 

We do this by providing palliative care treatment and support for patients and their families, carers and friends, during their time with us and beyond.

Our Multi-disciplinary team of doctors, nurses, therapists, chaplains, social workers and volunteers, treat patients in their own homes, at other places of care, and in the hospice.

What services do we offer?

Our services include our 18 bedded Inpatient Unit in Renmore, our Community Palliative Care Team and our Day Care Service. 

Complementary therapies, such as Art Therapy and aromatherapy, help with relaxation, and Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy help you with your everyday tasks. Our Medical Social Work Department support both you and your family through the journey. 

Our Pastoral Care Team is here to support and to give spiritual and religious guidance.

Does it matter where I live?

Galway Hospice team provides Community Palliative Care Services in the community throughout County Galway, and to the Aran and Inishbofin Islands. 

Galway Hospice Governed Services operate two Inpatient Units and Day Care facilities based in Renmore, Galway City and Castlebar, Co. Mayo. 

Where do I see you?

We see patients in their homes and other places of care, as well as at the hospice, our day unit, or as an inpatient.

We work closely with your GP and public health nurses, and also link with other medical and support staff you currently see, and work in partnership with them to provide you with the best all round care.

How long is the average stay in Galway Hospice?

Patients are admitted for a period of assessment.  Average stay is approximately 10-14 days. Length of stay will depend on individual need. However, the hospice is unable to offer long-term care.  

Is a hospice a place where you go to die?

Patients are admitted to Galway Hospice for a number of reasons including symptom control, supportive care following treatment e.g. chemotherapy and radiotherapy, respite care for patients with complex needs and for care at end of life.  Each year, Galway Hospice discharges in excess of 50% of inpatients into the community.

How do I contact the hospice?

If you would like further information about hospice care please contact 091 770868 or info@galwayhospice.ie.