Palliative Care Referrals

We accept referrals from physicians.  

To refer a patient to the Hennick Bridgepoint Palliative Care Unit, use the Strata Pathways Resource Matching and Referral system (RM&R)

Complete referral information assists in timely review and response to a referral. Please include the following information:

• Prognosis and Palliative Performance Scale (PPS)
• Patient’s current symptom initial palliative care consult
• Recent palliative care consult notes
• Recent medication list
• Relevant diagnostics, if available
• Nursing notes or care plan for indicated symptoms or needs (i.e. nutritional intake, behavioural needs, care needs)  
• Other relevant clinician documentation

Patients must meet the following criteria for a referral:

• Diagnosis of a progressive life-limiting illness such as but not limited to:
• Metastatic cancers  
• End stage renal disease
• End stage cardiac or lung conditions
• Dementia with limited oral intake and decreased level of function  
• Palliative performance scale score of 50 per cent or less  
• Need for short-term symptom management which can be requested at any point in life-limiting illness trajectory  

On average, patients have an expected prognosis of less than 3 months. We know that prognosis varies based on complex factors, and therefore, patients with a prognosis of 3-6 months will also be considered on case by case basis.  

Important considerations include the following:

• On the application, documentation will need to confirm that the patient or SDM(s) is in agreement to a conservative medical approach focusing on symptom management, comfort and improving quality of life.  
• A DNR order will also be confirmed, if not already in place, during their admission to our PCU as are unit is not set up for resuscitation efforts on site.

The Palliative care unit may consider discharges to the community if the interdisciplinary team feels that the care needs of the individual no longer require a hospital and if the patient’s care needs can be met in a community-based setting.  If this occurs, the PCU team will explore and work with patients and care partners to identify the most appropriate care location.   

What is unique about the palliative care service at Hennick Bridgepoint?

Our hospital offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to care, addressing not only the physical aspects of the illness but also the emotional, social and spiritual needs of patients. We will help patients and caregivers maintain their autonomy and quality of life.  

Our clinical team is comprised of palliative care physicians, nurses, a social worker, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, physiotherapist/occupational therapist assistant, spiritual care, speech language therapist, recreation therapist and a group of support staff.

What is the typical time from referral to bed offer if the patient is eligible?

New referrals are reviewed Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.  Referrals that have all the required information can be reviewed quickly and a decision will usually be communicated back to the referrer within one to two hours. If information is needed, or if there are special care needs, more time may be required to make the decision.  

Bed availability changes frequently and therefore patients who are accepted are generally able to transfer to a bed within a time frame of 1 to 7 days.

Does co-payment apply for patients admitted to the palliative care unit?

Co-payment does not apply for patients admitted under the palliative service with palliative needs. If a patient’s condition stabilizes, the patient no longer requires inpatient palliative care and long-term care is being explored, then patients are assessed for eligibility for co-payment.  

What care needs cannot be accommodated?  

• We cannot accommodate the following care needs:
• Hemodialysis
• Cuffed tracheostomy
• Suctioning more than every 3-4 hours
• Untreated or unmanaged psychiatric illness  
• TPN
• CPAP/BIPAP for conditions other than obstructive sleep apnea  
• Cough assist devices

Patients who require ongoing constant observation (sitter) will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis due to resource requirements.

If the patient is admitted to HBH PCU, what items can be brought to the hospital?

We encourage picture frames, a few pieces of clothing or other small items of personal significance. We please ask that large furniture be left at home as each room is equipped with a bed, bedside table and night table.  

What are your visiting hours?

Sinai Health embraces the presence of caregivers and visits are guided by our visitor policy (Mount Sinai and Hennick Bridgepoint).

Is it possible to get Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)?

Yes, it is possible to get Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) at HBH.