Palliative care aims to relieve suffering and to improve the quality of life for patients who have a serious, chronic or life threatening illness that cannot be cured.

Palliative care is provided by an interdisciplinary team that addresses the physical, psychological, social, spiritual and practical needs of patients and their families.  All patients receive an individualized plan of care that includes support, education, and assistance with advance care planning.

Advance care planning is also a service of palliative care. Advance care planning involves establishing goals of care, clarifying priorities, promoting informed choices, and discussing/completing advance directives.

Palliative care is appropriate for anyone who is living with an illness that cannot be cured, although they may be receiving treatment to control the illness and alleviate and manage symptoms. Palliative care is also helpful for patients and families needing education and support to make informed choices about their care.

What Kinds of Patients Could Benefit From A Palliative Care Consult?  
 
Palliative care can benefit patients experiencing frequent hospitalizations, those living with chronic and life-threatening illnesses, as well as those who are approaching the end of life. Palliative care can benefit patients with illnesses such as:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Congestive heart failure
• End-stage renal disease
• Advanced cancer
• Other life-threatening illness

What Is The Palliative Care Consult Team?

The Palliative Care Consult Team consists of a physician, nurse, social worker, and chaplain who have received specialized training. Other expert professionals are consulted to address the needs of patients and families as indicated.

The team provides:

• A comprehensive evaluation that addresses the physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and practical needs of patients and their families
• Help to manage pain and other distressing symptoms
• Help with advance care planning and clarifying the goals of care
• Assistance for patients and families who are struggling with difficult decision-making, such as changing the focus of treatment to comfort measures
• Coordinated care, support and education throughout the course of the illness
• Relief from worries, anxiety and depression
• Assistance with coordinating services to facilitate a smooth transition into the community after hospitalization
• Linkage to community resources to address unmet needs
• End of life care

A physician's order is required for a Palliative Care Consultation. Patients and family members may ask their physician if a Palliative Care Consult may be appropriate.  Or, a direct request may be made directly to the Palliative Care Coordinator. A member of the Palliative Care Team will discuss the patients needs and contact their physician to request an order.

For more information about our Palliative Care program and services available in the hospital, please contact the Palliative Care Coordinator at (209) 461-5489.