Before you Arrive

Before your arrival, we'll work with residents and their families 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.

If you are considering hospice care, you can learn more by exploring our website, watching the virtual tour or requesting an in-person tour. A member of your care team can also help you begin the referral process.

Watch the virtual 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.

How Referrals Work

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 atHome, 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 two to five 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

Is There a Cost?

There is no fee for residential hospice care. Some medications, specialized supplies or optional private services may involve additional costs. Our team will explain any potential costs and answer your questions.

Funding

Residential hospice care is made possible through government funding, community partnerships and donations. This support helps Kemp Care Network provide compassionate end-of-life care at Dr. Kemp’s House and support residents and the people who love them.

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.