If it is thought specialist input might be helpful, usually because someone’s needs have become more complex, the clinical team can contact the Hospital Adult Specialist Palliative Care Team (HSPCT) for support. This might be for advice or it might involve the palliative care team meeting a patient and the people close to them. The ward teams will ask a patient for permission before asking the HSPCT to meet with them.
The HSPCT works with the person referred, the people important to them and clinical teams, offering assessment and advice on the management of complex physical symptoms alongside psychological, social and spiritual issues. We support people through decisions about future treatment or place of care and can refer to other professionals who will continue care in hospital, home, a care home or a hospice if required.
This service is available for any adults with active, progressive life-limiting illness who is admitted to hospital or attending another hospital service.
The HSPCT provides a face to face service seven days a week to patients at all acute hospital sites across Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. These hospitals are; Leeds General Infirmary, St James’s University Hospital and Chapel Allerton Hospital. This is supported by 24/7 telephone support that clinical teams can access for advice at any time.
We work closely with colleagues in all departments, including psychology, chaplaincy, psychiatry and other specialist teams such as the inpatient pain team and condition specific nurse specialists.
How do patients and carers access the service?
If specialist palliative care advice is needed, the team providing day to day care and treatment should refer to the HSPCT. If you feel specialist palliative care services could help you or someone important to you, please discuss this with the team looking after you. They can call for advice if they are unsure.
You can find out more about how we support friends, relatives, and carers whose loved one is dying in hospital by visiting our SUPPORT campaign page.