“For me, it’s broken-down stereotypes. Palliative care doesn’t have to be a scary process. At the Hospice, patients feel included in their care and what is happening.”
Sakshy, a fourth-year medicine student from Brunel University, has spent a five-day placement shadowing the Hospice’s medical team (namely Dr Katy, Dr Gabi and Medical Director Sharon Chadwick!)
Having never experienced a hospice or palliative care environment, Sakshy explains what has stood out for her, “One of the things I’ve learnt is how important it is for patients not to lose control over decisions. Every care plan here is based on the individual. It’s a place where staff and patients both feel comfortable to talk about the future care.
When the staff are creating care plans or discharging patients, they take time to think about the support and wellbeing of family members too.
I’ve also seen how the Hospice uses ReSPECT forms (a document that outlines care preferences for people at risk of deterioration) and can see how this reduces the load on hospitals by ensuring care can continue in the community, if that’s best for a patient.
I love the team here - they are such a skilled team, working with patients who need complex care.”
Following the placement, Sakshy is returning to her studies with plans to specialise in obstetrics and gynaecology.
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