Before you Arrive

Before your arrival, we'll work with you and your loved ones to ensure a smooth transition to Dr. Kemp's House. We recognize that every family is unique, and we consider your family, as you define it, to be an important part of the care team. Our goal is to support the entire family throughout your time with us.

Getting Started

Whether you, your family, or your care team has identified that hospice might be right to explore, we encourage you to reach out as early as you feel comfortable. Three residential hospices exist in Hamilton and we are pleased to share a bit more about Dr. Kemp's House and how you may connect to our community. First, explore our website and the different ways that might be most appropriate for you to take your next steps. Second, request a tour and submit a referral.

Watch the Tour Video

Preparing for your stay

Families are welcome and encouraged to be involved in the daily life and care of their loved one. Our staff and volunteers will take the time to get to know you, answer your questions, and provide compassionate support every step of the way.

Upon admission, one of our Registered Nurses will complete a comprehensive assessment and develop a personalized care plan based on the resident's needs, goals, and wishes.

To help us provide seamless care, please bring all current medications and any medical supplies you are using at home. Families may also choose to arrange private nursing care or additional specialized supplies beyond the services provided at the hospice. In some cases, families may be asked to purchase medications that are not covered by the Ontario Drug Benefit Program if they are considered necessary for the resident's care.

If you have any questions before your arrival, our team is here to help and will guide you through the admission process.

KCN Referral Process

There are several places you can start when considering a referral for either you or a loved one. While ultimately the referral for any hospice in Hamilton must be sent by Ontario Health’s Home and Community Care Support Services, the referral can reach the gateway from:

Home and Community Care Coordinator
Palliative Community Outreach Team (PCOT)
Hospital care team (doctor, nurse, social worker)
Your family primary care team (family doctor)

While every attempt is made to review the referral quickly and on a priority basis, there are at least 2-5 days between review of the referral and coordination of possible admission.

Here are a few ways that we attempt to provide a transparent admission system based on need and equity:

Review/ assessment is conducted by an Advance Practice Nurse
Priority is based on the need for admission, priority is given to those at home first, hospital second and then LTC/other palliative care settings.
Admission is based on prognosis less than 3 months, pain and symptom burden, goals of care are appropriate for admission

Understanding the Costs

Personal Costs

With residential hospice palliative care in Ontario, there are no direct personal costs for our residents or their families. Kemp Care Network is committed to providing comprehensive care that does not impose financial burdens. Our aim is to alleviate the stress and financial worries often associated with serious illnesses, allowing you to focus on your well-being and that of your loved ones.

Funding

Kemp Care Network's ability to provide compassionate care to patients and their families in the Greater Hamilton Area is made possible through a combination of government support, partner funding and donations. The generosity of individuals and organizations in our community is instrumental in sustaining our mission. Donations play a significant role in covering the costs of residential hospice care and furthering our ability to provide support and comfort to those in need.

Need More Information?

Please submit your inquiry via the contact form, and we will get in touch with you.

Search

Find the services or information you’re looking for quickly by searching our site.