Developing hospice-based, nurse-led clinics to improve care for patients with MND

Abstract

Motor neurone disease (MND) is a terminal, neurodegenerative disease. The aims of the MND specialist nurse team are to coordinate care and ensure the best outcomes for patients. The MND Care and Research Centre based in Preston, Lancashire covers a large geographical area. Many patients with MND were travelling long distances to hospital to access support and experienced difficulties parking. This became increasingly difficult as the disease progressed. It was decided to bring the nurse-led services closer to patients by developing partnerships with the six local community hospices in Lancashire and South Cumbria. The aims of this initiative were to reduce travelling times, provide access to better parking and enable people to enjoy the pleasant hospice environment. As a result, a significant number of MND patients are receiving care from the specialist nurses in a hospice setting. An audit of the new services has been undertaken by the MND Care and Research Centre, the results of which show high levels of patient satisfaction. Patients indicated that they find the hospice environments to be more relaxed, aiding communication and creating the conditions for more productive, less stressful appointments. Professional relationships have also been strengthened between the care centre and hospice staff.