How do I access and organize my care?

Talking to your Physician

Make an appointment with your Family Physician if you have been diagnosed as Palliative by a specialist, as it is likely your Family Physician will be coordinating your palliative care.

In order to communicate best with your doctor around this issue, remember to tell the medical office assistant that the appointment concerns your palliative care, and book a longer appointment.

You deserve time and care over these issues and the doctor needs to know this is the objective of your appointment. It may be worth taking a family member or friend with you. This time can be difficult for your doctor as well, especially if they have known you for a long time.
 

Accessing Palliative Care

If you live on Vancouver's North Shore, your physician will explain how the North Shore Palliative Care Program operates, and make your referral. When your doctor refers you to the program, make sure you also have a referral to the provincial Palliative Benefits Program so that your medications and if necessary, some equipment costs, are covered.

Performing this critical step gives you access to a highly skilled team which, along with your Family Doctor, will be 100% focused on ensuring you are kept as comfortable as possible. It relieves you and those around you from having to think about the care you need.

Should you wish, you can also ask your physician to refer you to a family physician who specializes in palliative care. One of these physicians, Dr. Anis Lakha, can be seen on the video at this link.

If you do not live on the North Shore, but are in the Vancouver Coastal Health area, contact your local health unit. In addition you can contact either the British Columbia Hospice/Palliative Care Association (BCHPCA) or the Canadian Hospice/Palliative Care Association (CHPCA), you will find your nearest palliative care assistance.