Palliative Care

Palliative care is a specialized form of medical care designed to provide relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. Its primary goal is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and the family. Unlike hospice care, palliative care is appropriate for patients in any disease stage, including those undergoing treatment for curable illnesses and those living with chronic diseases, as well as patients who are nearing the end of life.

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Who Benefits from Palliative Care?

• Patients with serious illnesses, such as cancer, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), kidney disease, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and many others.

• Individuals experiencing severe symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and depression.

• Families and caregivers of seriously ill patients who need support and guidance.

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How Palliative Care Differs from Hospice Care:

1. Timing: Palliative care can begin at diagnosis, and at the same time as treatment. Hospice care is typically reserved for when it is believed that the patient has six months or less to live and is no longer receiving curative treatment for their illness.

2. Goal of Treatment: Palliative care works alongside curative or life-prolonging treatments, focusing on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Hospice care shifts the focus entirely to comfort care, emphasizing pain and symptom management and emotional and spiritual support as the end of life approaches.

3. Care Setting: Palliative care services can be provided in various settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and at home. Hospice care is often provided at home, but it can also be offered in hospice centers, hospitals, and nursing homes.

4. Care Team Composition: Both palliative and hospice care involve a multidisciplinary team approach, including doctors, nurses, social workers, and other specialists. However, hospice care usually involves more intensive support services, including bereavement counseling and spiritual care.

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Being a part of our palliative program means patients will have monthly visits and support from our registered nurses and medical doctor, in comfort of patient's home. 

 

In essence, palliative care serves as an extra layer of support for patients and families throughout the continuum of a serious illness. It aligns medical treatments with the patients' goals and values, offering them control over their own care and improving their quality of life. Hospice care, while similar in philosophy, specifically addresses the final phase of life, focusing on comfort rather than cure.