FIND WHAT YOU NEED | WE’RE HERE TO HELP

FAQs

Common questions Ipswich families ask when considering hospice care.

What is Ipswich Hospice?

Ipswich Hospice Care is a community owned facility, providing end-of-life palliative care to terminally ill people and support for their families.  Inpatient services are provided in a home-like environment in our 7-bed inpatient facility which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Grief and Bereavement support services are offered to the Ipswich and West Moreton community.

What is palliative care?

Palliative Care Australia defines palliative care as person and family-centred care provided for a person with an active, progressive, advanced disease, who has little or no prospect of cure and who is expected to die, and for whom the primary goal is to optimise the quality of life. Exclusion criteria apply.

What is respite care?

Respite care provides temporary support for a person while their primary carer takes a break, ensuring they continue to receive safe, professional care including personal care, nursing support, meals, and assistance with daily living needs. Exclusion criteria apply.

What is end-of-life care?

End-of-life care is the last few weeks of life in which a patient with a life-limiting illness is rapidly approaching death. The needs of patients and their carers is higher at this time. This phase of palliative care is recognised as one in which increased services and support are essential to ensure quality, coordinated care from the health care team is being delivered. This takes into account the terminal phase or when the patient is recognised as imminently dying, death and extends to bereavement care. Exclusion criteria apply.

How is Hospice care different from the hospital?

Ipswich Hospice is a community facility that provides palliative care in a home-like environment. Our model of care puts the patient and family at the centre of the care planning team. We endeavour to walk alongside you on your journey and provide as much comfort and support that you and your family need. We are guided by the choices and wishes of the patient and family; and we do all we can to make your time with us comfortable, safe and calm.

Can anyone access in-patient services at Ipswich Hospice?

Ipswich Hospice Inpatient service is available to people of the West Moreton region of south-east Queensland, who have a life-limiting illness. Referrals are made via the ‘Referrals’ tab at the top of this page. Whilst referrals can be made by anyone, it is important for us to get as much medical information as possible before we can accept the referral. Therefore, we suggest you talk to the patient’s doctor about a referral and ask if they can make the referral on your behalf.

Eligibility for admission is assessed by the Palliative Care Consultant, Clinical Nurse and Director of Nursing.

Please see our In-Patient Services page for more information.

Can anyone access bereavement support at Hilda’s House?

Yes. Anybody living in the West Moreton region who has experience loss, grief or bereavement can access the Grief and Bereavement Service. Referrals can be made by phoning the team on (07) 3218 1163 or emailing adminhh@ipswichhospice.org.au. Please visit the Services page for more information about the Grief and Bereavement Service.

In-Patient Care

For services including palliative care, end-of-life care and respite care.
If you’d like to apply for in-patient care, please click here to submit a referral.

Who can receive care at Ipswich Hospice?

Ipswich Hospice Inpatient service is available to people of the West Moreton region of south-east Queensland, who have a life-limiting illness. Referrals are made via the ‘Referrals’ tab at the top of this page. Whilst referrals can be made by anyone, it is important for us to get as much medical information as possible before we can accept the referral. Therefore, we suggest you talk to the patient’s doctor about a referral and ask if they can make the referral on your behalf.

Eligibility for admission is assessed by the Palliative Care Consultant, Nurse Practitioner and Director of Nursing.

Please contact us to discuss your suitability to care at Ipswich Hospice.

How much does hospice care cost?

Admission to hospice is like being cared for at home. This means your stay at Ipswich Hospice is partly funded by the Queensland Department of Health (accommodation, meals etc.). The costs that you will incur are for medications, hire of specialist equipment, Allied Heath assessments and continence products. You will be asked to sign the following agreements shortly after admission:

  • Consent for Ipswich Hospice to provide your care
  • Agreement to have medications supplied and invoiced directly from Ipswich Day & Night Pharmacy
  • Agreement to have continence products supplied and invoiced directly from Independence Australia

How is hospice care different to a hospital?

Ipswich Hospice is a community facility that provides palliative care in a home-like environment. Our model of care puts the patient and family at the centre of the care planning team. We endeavour to walk alongside you on your journey and provide as much comfort and support that you and your family need. We are guided by the choices and wishes of the patient and family; and we do all we can to make your time with us comfortable, safe and calm.

What kind of food is served?

The kitchen team prepares meals for individual patients. The main meal of the day is at lunch. Our Kitchen Team can take orders for sandwiches for family and friends prior to 10am daily at a nominal charge. Kitchen resources are limited at weekends and on public holidays, so meals are available only for patients at these times. 

Visitors are welcome to bring in their own food. There is a small fridge in each room and a microwave in the family room for reheating. 

The hospice kitchen is available only for Hospice staff, to comply with regulations.

Can I bring my pet?

Generally speaking, pets are welcome for a visit by Ipswich Hospice. However, this must be pre-approved by the Director of Nursing (or Manager).

Pets must be supervised at all times whilst on the premises and we ask you to clean up after them if required. 

What is in each room?

Each room has a CD/DVD player, TV, Fridge, Air conditioner, and an outdoor deck. A family room is available with a microwave, coffee and tea making facilities and there are outdoor areas and gardens around Hospice.

Patients should bring with them personal toiletries, shavers, incontinence aids, casual day wear, nightwear, underwear, socks, footwear & slippers.

Hobbies, music, photos, small sentimental items, medications and scripts currently used, dressings for wounds, and mobility equipment if used.

Grief and Bereavement Support

Questions we get about support for Ipswich locals through Hilda’s House.

Can anyone access bereavement support at Hilda’s House?

Yes. Anybody living in the West Moreton region who has experience loss, grief or bereavement can access the Grief and Bereavement Service. Referrals can be made by phoning the team on (07) 3218 1163 or emailing adminhh@ipswichhospice.org.au.

How much does bereavement support cost?

We kindly request donations for all bereavement services provided, with any contributions of $2 or more being tax deductible. All funds go towards supporting our grief and bereavement support services, which are partly funded by the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP). Your support will allow us to continue providing high-quality care to those in need.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our services, please do not hesitate to contact us at (07) 3812 1163 or via fax at (07) 3812 0232. We are here to help in any way we can.

How soon after a loss can someone seek support?

Support can begin during the palliative care journey and continue after the death of a loved one. Families connected to Ipswich Hospice may access support both before and after loss.

People may seek support at any time after a loss. Some individuals reach out soon after, while others may seek support months or years later.

Is support only for families of Ipswich Hospice patients?

Hilda’s House support services are available to people across the West Moreton community, including those whose loved one did not receive care at Ipswich Hospice.

What grief and bereavement services are offered?

We understand that the loss of a loved one can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. That’s why we offer a range of services:

  • Individual Support: Personalised one-to-one assistance for individuals navigating the complexities of bereavement (Exclusion criteria applies).
  • Palliative Care Counselling: Tailored counselling services for individuals and families approaching the end of life, supporting both the individuals facing the end of life and their loved ones.
  • Kids’ Grief Group: A dedicated program catering to children aged 6 to 14, providing a safe space for them to express their grief and connect with peers facing similar situations.
  • Adults’ Grief Group: Specifically crafted for bereaved adults, this program provides a facilitated group setting for individuals to connect and share their experiences.
  • Drop-In Group: Informal bi-monthly gatherings, creating a supportive environment for bereaved individuals to connect and share experiences.

Donations

Everything you need to know about making a donation to Ipswich Hospice.

Why does Ipswich Hospice need donations?

Ipswich Hospice Care is a community charity that provides palliative care and bereavement support to people in the Ipswich and West Moreton region. Each year the Hospice must raise about $1.3 million beyond government funding to keep its services operating and free for those who need them. Donations from the community help make this care possible.

Are donations tax deductible?

Yes. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible in Australia. Ipswich Hospice Care is registered as a Deductible Gift Recipient with the Australian Tax Office.

How can I donate to Ipswich Hospice?

There are many ways to support Ipswich Hospice Care. You can make a one-off donation, become a regular donor, leave a gift in your Will, join as a member, host a fundraiser, support community giving programs, or participate in events and appeals.

What does my donation help provide?

Your support helps Ipswich Hospice provide compassionate end of life care, grief and bereavement support, specialist care services, essential equipment, and a comfortable environment for patients and families.

What impact can a regular donation make?

Regular donations help the Hospice plan future services and meet growing demand. For example, donations can help provide meals for guests, fuel for nurses visiting patients at home, bereavement counselling for children, or specialist allied health assessments.

Can I leave a gift to Ipswich Hospice in my Will?

Yes. Leaving a gift in your Will is a lasting way to support Hospice care for future generations. Legacy gifts help fund equipment, staff training, grief support services and programs that support families in the community.

Can businesses support Ipswich Hospice?

Yes. Businesses can support the Hospice through workplace fundraising, sponsorship, hosting events, payroll giving, or volunteering teams for community activities.

Can I become a member of Ipswich Hospice?

Yes. Membership is open to individuals and organisations who want to support Hospice care in the community. Members help guide the organisation and can vote to elect the Board. Membership fees are $15 per year for individuals and $30 for families or organisations.

Who can I contact if I want to donate or learn more?

You can contact Ipswich Hospice Care directly on 07 3812 0063 or email admin@ipswichhospice.org.au to learn more about donating or supporting the Hospice.

IPSWICH HOSPICE CARE

Help bring dignity to every moment

Donate Now