The state government will spend $300,000 improving palliative care facilities at St George Hospital and Calvary Health Care Kogarah.
The money will be used to buy 16 new medi-fold beds for Calvary Health Care so family members can sleep next to patients. The fold-down beds, which are hidden behind cabinetry when not in use, have been trialled for five months with "great success", according to a South Eastern Sydney Local Health District spokeswoman. They replace fold-out chairs.
At St George Hospital, "quiet rooms" will be updated and sofa beds added to rooms that are unable to accommodate companion beds.
The aim is to provide a home-like environment during end-of-life care and a comfortable space for patients and families.
Oatley MP Mark Coure said the refurbishments would help bring some comfort to patients and their families during what is a very difficult time.
"The NSW government understands that having a loved one in palliative care can be a stressful time, which is why it is investing in improving experiences for patients and their loved ones," Mr Coure said.
He said the improvements would give families the opportunity to stay with their loved ones to provide support in a soothing environment. The state government committed $10 million to palliative care facility refurbishments in 2019 as part of $45 million in palliative care funding over four years. This includes 100 new palliative care nurses.
Calvary Health Care Kogarah is a specialist palliative care and rehabilitation hospital operated by South Eastern Sydney Local Health District and servicing St George and Sutherland Shire.
