Frequently Asked Questions about the Inpatient Unit

Why does the Hibiscus Coast need a hospice?
Being one of the fastest growing regions in NZ there is a real need to have hospice beds so that local people do not have to travel out of the district for inpatient care.

What is the inpatient unit?
The inpatient unit (IPU) is the area of the new hospice that includes six patients’ rooms, a kitchen and dining room for visiting families, and the chapel.

Why are there only six beds?
Hospice beds are primarily for patients requiring high need specialist symptom control or complex terminal care that cannot be managed in the patient’s home.

How long will patients be able to stay in the IPU?
This varies depending on an individual’s symptoms and circumstances. Three out of four patients prefer to be cared for in the comfort of their own home and on the Coast we are able to achieve this goal for 68 percent of our patients. However, there are times during a patient’s illness when they require specialist care and this is when they come into the inpatient unit. When the patient returns home they once again come under the care of the Hospice Community Clinical Team.

When will the six beds be available for use by patients?
The IPU is now fully operational and was opened for business on 28 September 2009

Is the Hospice only for cancer patients?
No, anyone with a life-limiting illness can be cared for by the Hospice. Conditions other than cancer include, end stage renal failure, degenerative heart disease, end stage respiratory disease and motor neurone disease.

How much does it cost to be cared for by Hospice?
Hospice is a free service primarily funded by donations. This makes your support so important.

Why does the Hospice clinical team include a family counsellor, a chaplain and a social worker?
Patients and their families under Hospice care have varying needs, for this reason we endeavour to offer holistic care.