July 23 would have been my father’s 88th birthday. I am writing to advise your readers the options and rights that one has as a patient in the Prince County Hospital and in any hospital, I believe.
It was my Dad’s desire to “just go home,” but was denied during his stay in the hospital and ultimately his passing on Dec. 23, 2019. This should not have happened.
As an elderly patient, one must be proactive and educate themselves as to the options available to them during this very difficult time. Plan ahead and know your rights. The family needs to support them and their decisions as well as the medical staff. After all, they have paid into the system for years and now they need the services. Palliative care at home is an excellent option and apparently available, when requested. Health-care workers come into the home and assist there in the comforts of their own surroundings.
Years gone by, most people passed peacefully in their own homes and simple burials took place. Somehow, we have lost that personal touch and much needed support. We can choose to honour their wishes, and allow them to pass the way the want to. Give them peace and comfort during this transition. Information on one's rights while in hospital is available at princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/health-pei/patient-rights-and-responsibilities. The key is to be pro-active, inform yourself, then prepare.
Keep well and stay safe. Blessings.
Sandra Lynn Milligan Turner,
Summerside
