A series of free forums across the Territory in the coming weeks will seek community input on the planning and provision of Palliative Care services. Individuals and organisations with an interest or involvement in palliative care are encouraged to participate.

The 'Planning for the Future: Palliative Care in the Northern Territory, 2010 Onwards' forums are being held in Darwin on 16-18 September, and Gove on 6 October. The first forum was held in Alice Springs on 10 September, and another was held in Katherine on 15 September.

Palliative care takes a comprehensive approach to treating end of life illness that focuses on the physical, psychological, spiritual, and existential needs of the patient. Its goal is to achieve the best quality of life available to the patient by relieving suffering and controlling pain and symptoms.

Dr Maureen Mitchell, Acting Director of Territory Palliative Care, NT Department of Health and Families, said there is a growing need for palliative care services in the NT.

"In 2008-09, 654 Territorians were provided services through the Territory Palliative Care specialist team-an increase of almost 70 per cent since 2004-05.

"This series of forums provides an opportunity for people to come together and talk about what is important to them and to their communities. This will help us to gain a shared understanding of priorities so we can plan inclusive and effective NT palliative care services for the future," said Dr Mitchell.

The forums are sponsored by the NT Department of Health and Families and by organisations that support palliative care services, including General Practice Network NT, Carers NT, COTA NT, Masonic Homes, Red Cross and Anglicare NT.

In addition to the forums, a discussion paper, general feedback form and more information are available at www.health.nt.gov.au/Palliative_Care

For further information contact Brooke Rainbird, brooke.rainbird@nt.gov.au,
phone 08 8999 2778.

Release date: 17 September 2009