The Virtual Palliative Supportive Care (VPSC) program provides support for clients with life-limiting or Palliative End-of-Life care from the comfort of their home. It creates an additional connection between you and your local care team, using a computer tablet loaned to you at no cost.
The Virtual Palliative Supportive Care program helps you to manage your changing health needs before emergencies happen. Your nurse will provide education and coaching so that you and your caregiver feel more confident to manage at home.
Virtual Palliative Care can be a stand-alone program or in addition to other Community Health Services that you already have in place.
Participation in this program only takes a few minutes each day.
Virtual Palliative Care provides eligible clients and caregivers palliative nursing support from the comfort of their home. Information can be shared with the Palliative Nurse by using either your own device (iPad, tablet or computer) or a tablet loaned to you at no cost.
A technician will come comes to your house to deliver and install the equipment and will show you how to use it. There is no cost to participate.
Every day you will tap your tablet and follow some simple onscreen instructions. After you answer as short set of questions at a scheduled time, all of the information you provide can be sent directly to your nurse.
No, you do not need an internet connection to participate in this program. The tablet uses a cellular connection to send your information securely to the nurse.
You and your nurse will regularly connect by phone and secure face-to-face video conferencing. The nurse will support and educate you on how to best manage changes in your condition and recognize emergencies. The nurse is in contact with your Physician or Nurse Practitioner regularly.
This free program is available to anyone living in an Island Health region who has a life-limiting or Palliative diagnosis. Clients do not need to have BC Palliative Benefits to participate.
If you or your family member have a life-limiting or Palliative diagnosis, speak with your physician or nurse practitioner, or call your Regional Community Health office to find out if this program is a good fit for you.
Virtual Palliative Care is being rolled out to Island Health communities beginning in the spring of 2022. To find out when VPSC is coming to your area, email communityvirtualcare@islandhealth.ca.
If you or your family member have a life-limiting or Palliative diagnosis, speak with your physician or nurse practitioner, or call your Regional Community Health office to find out if this program is a good fit for you.
