FAQ

This service is available to patients with cancer, and other advanced progressive life limiting conditions that produce challenging symptoms, which need specialist input.  Your doctor will advise you if it is appropriate for your needs.  The catchment area includes all who live south of the river Liffey, in south Dublin City and county.

You, a family member, or your PHN can initiate referral to our services, by discussing with your hospital team or your GP.  The GP or hospital team should fill out a referral form and send it to us in OLH&CS. We require your GP’s consent to link you to our service, as it forms one part of an integrated community service. The timing of your visit is subject to demand and available resources.  Priority is always given to the patient with greater needs.

Yes, usually a volunteer driver can be arranged to collect you and return you home, if you have no access to transport.  There is also (limited) access to a wheelchair accessible minibus.  If you have access to transport, it would assist us greatly.  We may not be able to arrange transport in all cases.

If your needs change, your care may be transferred to another aspect of the service, that may suit you better, or if your symptoms improve you may be discharged from the specialist service back to the care of your GP or hospital team.

This support service is provided by experienced nurses on our inpatient unit, between the hours of six-thirty pm and eight am, for people who are receiving specialist palliative care community services and wish to seek advice about a problem or concern that they may have.
The details of how to access this service will be given to you, once you are admitted into the service.