What is our In-Patient Unit?

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Our In-Patient Unit (IPU) provides short-term and specialised palliative care

for patients whose symptoms require closer medical attention or

whose care needs can no longer be safely managed at home.

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Our goal is always to provide the right level of care for each individual

while supporting families throughout the journey.

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​When might the In-Patient Unit be the right choice?

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Symptoms or Pain Become Difficult to Manage:

When pain or other symptoms require closer monitoring and specialised care

than can be provided at home.

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Home Care Is No Longer Enough:

When a patient's care needs become too complex or demanding

for family members or caregivers to manage safely at home.

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Closer Medical & Nursing Support Is Needed:

When a patient requires more frequent assessments, nursing care

or symptom and pain management from our interdisciplinary team.​

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Short-Term Admission for Stabilisation:

Patients are admitted temporarily to help manage symptoms and pain

or improve their condition before returning home to continue their care.

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End-of-Life Care:

When a patient is approaching the final stage of life and requires compassionate,

around-the-clock care focused on comfort and dignity.​

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A Place of Comfort

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Our In-Patient Unit is more than a medical facility.

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It is a place where patients receive personalised care in a peaceful and supportive environment while families are welcomed, supported and involved throughout the journey.

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Every person is cared for with dignity, compassion and respect.

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How is the care funded?

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There is no direct cost to the patient for the palliative care provided by Sungardens.

We claim directly from the patient’s medical aid.

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However, some personal costs are not covered by Sungardens and remain the

responsibility of the patient, such as medication, wound dressings,

oxygen concentrators and oxygen cylinders.

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Sungardens relies on donations and community support to help sustain our

palliative care services.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Who can be admitted?

Admission is based on each patient's individual needs and is discussed with our interdisciplinary team.

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Is the In-Patient Unit only for end-of-life care?

No.

Some patients are admitted for symptom or pain management or additional medical support

and are able to return home once their condition has improved.

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Do I need a referral for admission?

A referral from your doctor, together with your medical reports,

is required for admission.

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Can my family visit me?

Yes.

We encourage family involvement and understand how important

loved ones are throughout the patient's journey.

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There are no set visiting hours in the In-Patient Unit, allowing families to spend time with their loved ones according to their individual circumstances.

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Who cares for the patient?

Our patients are cared for by a interdisciplinary team that includes nurses, doctors

and social workers who are qualified in palliative care.

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Our team works together to provide individualised care and support for

patients and their families.

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Is the In-Patient Unit a long-term or step-down facility?

No.

The In-Patient Unit provides short-term palliative care when a patient requires

additional support, symptom management or specialised care that cannot be

provided at home. It is not a long-term care facility or a step-down facility.