Compassionate, Local Palliative Care in Melbourne Outer East & North West
At Just Better Care Melbourne Outer East & North West, we understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate a life-limiting illness—for both individuals and their families. Our in-home palliative care services provide professional, compassionate support focused on enhancing quality of life from the moment of diagnosis, not just the final stages.
What is Palliative Care?
Palliative care is a person-centred approach that supports people living with serious illness. It goes beyond physical care to also address emotional, social, cultural and spiritual needs.
According to the World Health Organisation, palliative care involves the early identification and treatment of pain and other distressing symptoms—whether physical, psychological or spiritual.
When Should Palliative Care Begin?
Many people are surprised to learn that palliative care can start at any stage of a serious illness. It can be delivered alongside active treatments such as chemotherapy or physiotherapy, supporting people through transitions in care and health goals.
Is Palliative Care Giving Up?
Not at all. Palliative care is about improving quality of life—not about giving up. Many people continue with treatment while receiving palliative support to manage symptoms, reduce discomfort, and feel emotionally supported.
What Does Palliative Care Include?
While pain management is a key element, palliative care includes a wide range of services:
- Relief from symptoms like fatigue, nausea, breathlessness and insomnia
- Emotional and psychological support
- Nutritional and functional assistance
- Culturally responsive or spiritual care
- Advance care planning
- Grief and bereavement support for families and carers
At the heart of this care are skilled nurses—educators, advocates and trusted support people who help coordinate care with your healthcare team.
Where Can Palliative Care Be Provided?
Palliative care can be delivered wherever you feel most comfortable:
- In your own home
- At a hospital or hospice
- In aged care homes
- Via community health clinics
At Just Better Care Melbourne Outer East & North West, we’re proud to deliver in-home palliative care across Melbourne Outer East & North West, allowing you to stay in familiar surroundings with your loved ones close by.
Who Delivers Palliative Care?
Palliative care is provided by a dedicated, multidisciplinary team that may include:
- Palliative care nurses and doctors
- General Practitioners (GPs)
- Allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, dietitians or speech pathologists
- Social workers and pharmacists
- Spiritual care workers or cultural support workers
Our nurses are the cornerstone of our in-home care model, providing regular health assessments, symptom monitoring, and emotional support.
Does Palliative Care Hasten Death?
No. Palliative care neither hastens nor delays death. Its focus is on improving comfort and quality of life. In fact, evidence shows that receiving early palliative care can sometimes extend life by helping individuals manage their health more effectively.
Is Palliative Care Free?
Many palliative care services in Australia are government funded and provided at no cost—particularly in community settings. For private services or specialised facilities, there may be fees. We can guide you through available funding options, including Home Care Packages and private health cover.
Advance Care Planning: Thinking Ahead
Palliative care also supports important conversations about future health decisions. This can include:
- Writing an Advance Care Directive
- Appointing a substitute decision-maker
- Documenting your care preferences and values
These steps empower individuals to make informed choices and give loved ones clarity and peace of mind.
Why Choose Just Better Care Melbourne Outer East & North West?
- Compassionate, holistic care delivered in your own home
- Skilled, local nurses and care professionals who understand your community
- Emotional and practical support for families and carers
- A respectful approach that honours your story and preferences
- Local connections with trusted Melbourne Outer East & North West health services
Let’s Talk About What Matters to You
If you or someone you love is living with a life-limiting illness, we’re here to help:
- Speak with your GP or healthcare provider about palliative care options
- Contact Just Better Care Melbourne Outer East & North West to learn how we can support you at home
- Start the conversation—our team is ready to walk alongside you with compassion, comfort and dignity
