Introduction to Inpatient Hospice Palliative Care Service
Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life of patients with life-limiting illness and their families through the prevention and relief of suffering. IHPCS serves end-of-life patients who cannot be cared for at home and require inpatient care. These patients may be admitted for terminal care or a trial of treatment. IHPCS is available in inpatient hospices as well as most community hospitals.
Services Provided
The services provided include:
General Palliative Care
- Relief of symptoms such as pain and breathlessness with oral and subcutaneous medication
- Management of patients requiring oxygen/ nebuliser therapy
- Emotional and Psychological Support to help patients and their loved ones cope with the impending death, grief and loss.
Specialised Palliative Care
- Higher-tier services such as management of drains that require regular medical input, administration of intravenous medication
- Management of patients with more complex needs e.g. moderate to severe confusion/ delirium
How to Apply
The patient needs to be assessed by a medical practitioner to determine if IHPCS is appropriate for his or her needs. Patients and their caregivers can approach the patient’s regular doctor (both specialists and general practitioners can make the referral) or medical social worker to initiate an assessment.
Singapore Residents admitted into IHPCS are eligible for means-tested Government subsidies of up to 75%, as well as MediShield Life and MediSave coverage. If patients need further financial assistance, their respective service providers will be able to provide more information. You can find an IHPCS provider using SupportGoWhere.
