St Luke’s Hospital continues to advance palliative care through innovative care models, strengthening the care community and upgrading their capability.
Palliative care is more than just medical treatment — it is about dignity, comfort and love in life’s final chapter. At St Luke’s Hospital (SLH), we are committed to providing holistic, compassionate support for patients and their families. Our journey in palliative care reflects our mission to enrich lives, honour our past, and shape a future where every patient receives quality care and a meaningful experience.
A LEGACY OF COMPASSIONATE CARE
Palliative care has been a priority since our inception in 1996, but concerns about an end-of-life care facility initially delayed its implementation. In 2017, recognising the growing needs of Singapore’s ageing population, we opened a dedicated inpatient palliative ward, becoming one of the first hospitals in the western part of Singapore to do so. SLH has since supported more than 1,500 end-of-life patients through our Clinical, Social, and Pastoral (CSP) model of care, which addresses not just physical well- being but also emotional, social and spiritual needs.
HONOURING LEGACIES
In 2023, SLH launched Project Heartbeat, a music therapy initiative that integrates the heartbeats of selected patients into a song of their choice, creating a lasting memento for their loved ones.
Our Occupational Therapy team leads legacy projects like scrapbooking and planting, allowing patients to leave heartfelt messages for their families. Patients also enjoy Mini Café sessions, where they gather in a warm, lively setting to share snacks, drinks and interactive activities — from live cooking demonstrations to life-sized board games — creating meaningful social and sensory experiences.
In addition, community outings for palliative patients and their families are organised to provide opportunities to bond, fostering joy, connection and a sense of community beyond the hospital setting.
MEETING EVOLVING NEEDS
With increasing demand for quality palliative care, SLH remains dedicated to enhancing and expanding our services to better support patients with complex needs and their families. To create a more comfortable and supportive environment, our renovated palliative care ward now features a dedicated lounge area for private family discussions, an upgraded activity space for effective engagement and a Peace Room with calming imagery and adjustable lighting for comfort in the final moments.
From 2024, we introduced the Integrated Home Health (IHH) programme, which provides seamless and holistic support for homebound patients and their families. This initiative equips families with essential resources and guidance, ensuring dignity and peace in their loved one’s final days.
Looking ahead, SLH will further expand our services in 2029 by operating palliative care wards at Alexandra Hospital under the Inpatient Hospice Palliative Care Service framework. Through this collaboration, we aim to develop innovative care models that enhance accessibility and quality of care for patients in the western population.
GRIEF AND BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT
SLH hosts a Palliative Care Memorial Service every year, providing families with a space for reflection and healing.
To ensure timely and compassionate support, we assess all patients using the Complicated Bereavement Risk Assessment Tool (CBRAT). The next of kin who is at moderate to high risk of complicated grieving are referred to our bereavement counsellor at the time of their loved ones’ admission, ensuring they receive the support they require throughout their journey.
CREATING A COMMUNITY OF CARE
Enhancing emotional well-being, SLH works closely with volunteers to bring warmth and companionship to patients. In 2024, we introduced Animal-Assisted Activity, where gentle, trained animals provide comfort under the guidance of dedicated facilitators, uplifting patients and brightening their days.
STRENGTHENING CAPABILITIES
St Luke’s Academy launched the Compassionate Care Conference in 2022, throwing a spotlight on the well-being of healthcare professionals and the importance of compassionate care.
In every ward, we continue to strengthen palliative care training by appointing champions and facilitating cross-department attachments to our palliative ward. Cross-disciplinary sharing and teaching sessions, which are open to all staff, will further deepen the understanding of palliative care.
Since 2019, SLH has partnered with nursing homes like All Saints Home under the Nursing Home Support Programme, providing training on care plans, interventions, and bedside care to enhance patient-centric support. Soon, inpatient palliative care attachments at SLH will be included in this programme.
A JOURNEY OF LOVE, HOPE AND CONNECTION
As we honour our past, we remain committed to shaping the future of palliative care through innovation, collaboration, and unwavering dedication. Through expanded services, deeper community engagement, and a culture of compassion, we strive to make every patient’s final chapter one of peace, love, and human connection.