What we do

Medical Advice from St Mary’s Hospice

Our Medical Director is Dr Philomena Swarbrick. She has worked in palliative care for 16 years, at the Speciality Doctor level for 7 years. She has a Diploma in Palliative Care and is writing a PhD. Her specialist interest is in Advance Care Planning and Communication Skills. She is full time at the hospice.

Advice for palliative patients with life-limiting illnesses, cancer or non-cancer, can be sought in several ways:

Out-Patients

Dr Swarbrick often sees out-patient on Wednesday afternoons when the Day Hospice is also running. However, patients may be seen on any day of the week if necessary.

Use the hospice referral form and tick Medical Out-patients. Fax or post this to the hospice. Dr Swarbrick will arrange for the patient to be contacted and for an appointment to be made as soon as is practically possible.

Domiciliary Visits

Use the hospice referral form and ask for a Medical Domiciliary Visit. Please enclose as much information about the patient as possible. Please state how urgently you feel that the patient requires a visit and why.

Telephone Advice

If the referral is more urgent, ring the hospice on 01229 580305 and ask to speak to Dr Swarbrick. She is happy to give advice at any time over the telephone, if appropriate. If Dr Swarbrick is not available, the duty doctor or a senior specialist nurse may be able to help.