Bridging the healthcare gap: independent palliative care facilities to improve end-ff-life care for the chronically ill.

Abstract

Chronic illnesses are becoming increasingly prevalent in our society, yet access to quality palliative care remains a significant challenge for Canadians. This issue is especially pronounced in underserved regions like Sudbury, Ontario, where geography isolates patients and resources are limited. With few options, residents are often forced to rely on Health Sciences North, the region’s sole hospital, which is frequently over-crowded and prioritizes clinical efficiency over long-term, compassionate care. As a result, the needs of chronic patients are often neglected, leaving them feeling disconnected from environments that should offer comfort and support during their most vulnerable moments. This thesis seeks to bridge this health-care gap by proposing a new typology for palliative care, an independent, alternate-level care centre, designed to better serve those facing end-of-life transitions. Rooted in a salutogenic framework, this design focuses on promoting health and well-being through personalized, compassionate care, setting a new standard for chronically ill patients.