An extension of the existing facilities at the MHM : a feasibility study based on current demand

Abstract

In the last few decades, radical developments have been made in the health sector by means of medical technology. However, there are still a few life-threatening illnesses that go beyond curative treatment. In such cases, patients would require palliative care, which seeks to control pain and manage other symptoms to enable patients to remain as alert and comfortable as possible till the end of their life. Currently, there is no in-patient unit in Malta. This study sought to examine the financial feasibility of extending the existing facilities provided at the Malta Hospice Movement by setting up an in-patient unit which will accommodate fifteen patients. This unit would provide the level of care needed by patients that can no longer be cared for at home or in hospital. The initial capital outlay, income and operating expenditure were estimated, together with the method of financing the project. This was followed by the preparation of the projected Income and Expenditure Statement, Cash Flow Statement and Balance Sheet for the five year period under study. Discounted Cash Flow Techniques and sensitivity analysis were then used to evaluate the viability of the project. A conclusion was arrived on the basis of the specific assumptions made throughout the study. From the Discounted Cash Flow Techniques and the sensitivity analysis, it resulted that the project should be undertaken. However, the projections should be used with caution due to the risks and uncertainties inherent in this kind of feasibility study.