Great Southern Health Professionals Network | End of Life Conversations Part 2 | Albany & Online

The Great Southern Health Professionals Network (GSHPN) invites health professionals to join Dr Kirsten Auret, Dr Lorri Hopkins, Jemma Mustey, Ingrid Storm and Dr Sascha Saharov for a heartfelt and thought-provoking evening exploring Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) and the deeply personal conversations that surround end-of-life care.

This session will explore how health professionals can respond compassionately to a patient’s first request for VAD, support informed choice, navigate conversations around grief and prognosis, and walk alongside patients and their families with empathy, dignity and respect.

Facilitated by Dr Kirsten Auret, the evening will feature presentations from experienced local health professionals and conclude with an expert panel discussion, providing honest insights, practical guidance and an opportunity for questions.

Topics include:

First conversations – GPs and nurses as first responders to end-of-life discussions
Presented by Dr Lorri Hopkins, GP, and Jemma Mustey, Nurse Practitioner

Explore the important role of GPs and nurses when patients first raise questions about end-of-life care and Voluntary Assisted Dying, including how to respond with compassion and support informed decision-making.

Navigating grief professionally and personally – a personal perspective
Presented by Ingrid Storm, Psychologist, and Dr Kirsten Auret, Palliative Care Specialist

A thoughtful exploration of grief and the emotional complexities that can arise for patients, families and health professionals when navigating end-of-life care.

Walking alongside patients choosing Voluntary Assisted Dying
Presented by Dr Sascha Saharov, VAD Practitioner

Gain practical insight into supporting patients who choose to pursue Voluntary Assisted Dying and how health professionals can provide respectful, person-centred care throughout their journey.

Who should attend?

This event is suitable for GPs, nurses, nurse practitioners, allied health professionals and other health professionals involved in supporting patients and families through serious illness, palliative care and end-of-life decision-making.

For further information, please contact the GSHPN Coordinator.