Palliative Care: It’s Not Hospice!

The terms “palliative care” and “hospice care” are often used interchangeably and many think they are one and the same. They are not. Each is valuable in its own way. Today we look more closely at palliative care.

Palliative care is supportive care for those managing a serious or long-term disease. Examples include: ALS, Cancer, Lung disease, Kidney disease, MS, etc.

Palliative care focuses on quality of life, not quantity. It is designed around the patient's values and belief systems, and is concerned with enhancing the present level of care. 

The main goals for palliative care support are pain management, emotional and mental health support, care coordination, and nutrition. Coordination of family and social support is also provided as needed.

Common misconceptions about palliative care:

• It's only for end-of-life

• It's only for old people

• Insurance doesn't cover it

• It only works in the hospital

• It's expensive

These are falsehoods! Gain valuable knowledge here!

When faced with a serious diagnosis that may or may not be curable talk to your provider about palliative care options. It's your life, take all the enhancement you can get!

If you wish to have more information on palliative care or are wanting to receive palliative care services, reach out, I will do my best to make it happen!