MENTAL HEALTH PALLIATIVE CARE INITIATIVE

In reply to Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (26 June 2013).

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING (Playford—Minister for Health and Ageing, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Minister for Defence Industries, Minister for Veterans' Affairs): During 2011-12 and in conjunction with the Northern Adelaide Medicare Local, the Lyell McEwin Hospital Palliative Care Service developed and implemented the Specialist Mental Health Initiative in Palliative Care.

The initiative aims to meet the psychological needs of patients and their families during the time they are in receipt of palliative care and later in bereavement. It is offered to patients and their families who may be experiencing psychological distress, such as anxiety, depression, and adjustment related difficulties such as grief and loss.

The service is free and is provided as an inpatient or as a community or home based service.

The program also includes support for both community and inpatient specialist teams caring for palliative care clients.

This project continues under the auspices of the Northern Adelaide Medicare Local.