St. Josephs Ward is a 30 bedded unit for patients with advanced life-limiting conditions requiring assessment and management of complex symptoms and/or complex emotional, social and spiritual needs.

In order to meet these needs, patients will require the input of the specialist multi-professional team . Patients may be referred using the Hospice referral form under the following criteria:

Criteria for Referral
The patient has consented to the referral
The patient has an advanced life-limiting illness with
complex symptoms or complex emotional, social, spiritual needs requiring the input of the specialist multi-professional team

Patients may be admitted for:

• Symptom Assessment and Management
• Rehabilitation
• Respite care
• End of life care

In order that we may provide the highest standard of care to all patients and their families and/or carers, we would like to furnish you with the following information:

Philosophy of Care
Our approach to providing care is holistic, taking into account the uniqueness of the individual and the spiritual, physical, psychological and social needs of both patients and their carers. A multi-professional team approach to providing care is undertaken within the Hospice. The multi-professional team comprises of nursing and medical staff, physiotherapists, pastoral care staff, counsellors and complementary therapists.

Aim of Care
Following assessment by appropriate members of the multi-professional team, an individual plan of care is formulated in conjunction with the patient and carer. This plan of care is continually monitored and reviewed. The aim of the care is to improve quality of life and allow rehabilitation within the limits imposed by the patient`s illness. This is achieved by providing effective symptom management and attention to the physical, psychological, social and spiritual well-being of patients and their carers.

Arrangements for Admission
Hospice staff liaise with the patient`s General Practitioner or Hospital Staff regarding arrangements for admission. The General Practitioner or Hospital Staff are responsible for arranging patient`s transfer to the Hospice. Patients and/or carers may visit the Hospice prior to admission. However, a prior appiontment must be made.

Arrangements for Discharge Home
Many of our patients return home from the Hospice following a short admission. To facilitate a discharge home, Hospice Staff liaise with the patient`s General Practitioner and, if required Community Nurses and Social Services, to ensure services are in place to support the patient and family at home.

Incoming Telephone Calls or Emails
Patients may receive incoming telephone calls. Relatives/carers should telephone the ward in the first instance and the call will be transferred. Communication by email can also be arranged with the Nurse in Charge.

Patient Referrals

Referrals are normally made to St. Margaret of Scotland Hospice from the patient's Hospital Consultant, General Practitioner or Community Nurse.

To acces any of the Care services offered at the Hospice, a Referral Form must be completed and returned.

Download a Referral Form,
OR
Call us on 0141 952 1141 to request one by Email or by Post.

For Relatives and Carers
Read more information on our Mary Aikenhead Centre and St. Joseph's Ward.