Hollywood Hospital Palliative Care Unit accredited for high standards

16/10/98

The Hollywood Private Hospital Palliative Care Unit today received national recognition for the high standard and quality care for its patients.

Presenting the prestigious accreditation from the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards, Health Minister John Day commended the Unit which is acknowledged as a world-leader in hospice care.

"Through this accreditation, the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards, which is the major advocate of quality in Australian healthcare, has recognised the Palliative Care Unit for its excellence and has acknowledged the calibre of its staff," Mr Day said.

When the Hollywood Palliative Care Unit was established in 1981 it was the first hospice program in Perth.

The 22-bed unit offers single and shared accommodation in a home-like environment and provides total care for people with a terminal illness.

A team of medical professionals, volunteers and clerical and domestic staff supports the unit and ensures that the hospice ethos is maintained throughout.

The Australian Association for Hospice and Palliative Care (AAHPC) has endorsed the accreditation process developed by the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards under the Evaluation and Quality Improvement Program (EquIP).

Mr Day presented the Accreditation Certificate to Dr Sarah Pickstock, Medical Director of the Palliative Care Unit during a brief ceremony this morning.

"Through this achievement, this dedicated team confirms its commitment to the organisation and to the patients and families for whom they provide such excellent service," he said.

Media contact: Mark Thompson 9213 6600