Meet Adam: Weston Hospicecare’s Palliative Doctor Bringing Comfort to Patients in Need
The introduction of an additional speciality palliative care doctor, Adam, was to create a more robust medical team and increase capacity.
Adam’s role incorporates time on the In-patient Unit; sharing ward rounds with our palliative consultant to speak with patients on a one to one basis.
This enables continuity of care for our patients and the ability for them to develop a close relationship with their doctor.
Adam also liaises weekly with Hospitals, Community Nurses and our multi-disciplinary team (our clinical teams) to discuss patients’ frequently changing needs and medical requirements. Collaborative practice and clear communication is essential to provide the best quality of care for our patients. Discussions are held regarding whether patients need greater medical input or whether they need to be remitted to our In-patient unit.
Adam also works on call for one week in four to ensure our palliative patients have constant, timely, quality care and support as their conditions may change or deteriorate quickly.
Adam will play a key role in progressing key projects within the Hospice; to develop our hospice medical services and develop our clinical staff through additional training.
Ultrasound Machine
We would like the addition of an ultrasound machine in our In-patient Unit. Adam has an acute medical background so will attend the additional training and operate the ultrasound machine. This will enable us to identify whether a patient has an accumulation of fluid, blood or air. Normally an ultrasound would require a patient referral to Weston General Hospital or Musgrove Park Hospital. Which is timely and inconvenient for the patient as well as prolonging their discomfort.
Clinical Research Trial
Previously, the Hospice hasn’t had adequate capacity to participate in medical research. Adam’s addition enables us to participate in a Somerset End of Life Clinical Trial. The trial covers a 2 year period and researches whether or not palliative patients should be hydrated at the end of their lives. Adam will play a pivotal role within the trial which will undoubtedly enhance the knowledge and quality of care, not just in the Hospice, but within all palliative care settings.
Find out more about the care that Weston Hospicecare provide here.