As communities in midwestern Ontario fundraise to build hospices, the Southwest Local Health Integration Board has approved some guiding principles to help solidify a vision for the region.
The LHIN wants to ensure stakeholders and interest groups understand the process and expectations, and realize what is and isn't possible. The LHIN hopes to ensure consistency and transparency as they successfully implement hospice resources.
The first principle is to ensure equitable access to a residential hospice for every person no matter who they are, where they live or how much they make.
The LHIN also wants to engage patients, families and communities in planning and operation of the hospices.
LHIN officials say any decision will be based on the best available data, evidence and practices to improve end of life care.
The hospice programs will be part of a fully integrated health system, and will make the best use of resources to ensure feasibility and sustainability.
The LHIN will ensure local hospice palliative care collaboratives have and share those principles.
The principles will also be part of a decision on a residential hospice development in Huron Perth which is expected to be made by the board on February 21.