THE operation of Clare Holland House will transition to Canberra Health Services from July 3.

The decision follows extensive discussions between the ACT government and Calvary Health Care, to understand the existing connections.

It comes as the government made the decision in May to forcibly acquire Calvary Public Hospital.

Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith says “we have heard very clearly from staff that they believe palliative care services – hospice and community-based – should stay together as a specialised, integrated palliative care service.”

Calvary CEO Martin Bowles says “it is with a heavy heart that we have come to this decision, but in our view Clare Holland House is not a separate service and patient care is our priority.”

Stephe-Smith says this decision will ensure continuity of care for patients needing public palliative care services and provide certainty for Clare Holland House staff.

“Canberra Health Services will work with Calvary to ensure a smooth and safe transition of services with the aim of minimising disruption for staff, patients and carers as much as possible. Clare Holland House staff will be invited to transition their employment to Canberra Health Services,” she says.