Pranjot Cancer Foundation

Definition

Palliative care is a specialized form of medical care focused on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of serious illnesses, including cancer. The goal of palliative care is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and their family.

Key Components

• Symptom Management: Palliative care specialists address a wide range of symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping. They use a variety of methods including medications, physical therapy, and nutritional support to manage these symptoms.
• Emotional and Psychological Support: Serious illnesses can cause significant emotional and psychological stress. Palliative care teams include counselors, psychologists, and social workers who provide emotional support and help patients and families cope with the challenges they face.
• Spiritual Care: For many people, spirituality plays an important role in their overall well-being. Palliative care teams often include chaplains or spiritual care advisors who can offer spiritual support and guidance.
• Coordination of Care: Palliative care teams work closely with other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care. They help navigate complex medical decisions and ensure that all aspects of the patient’s care are addressed.
• Family Support: Palliative care also extends to the family, providing them with support and resources to manage their own emotional and practical needs as they care for their loved one.

Who Can Benefit?

Palliative care is appropriate for patients at any stage of a serious illness and can be provided alongside curative treatment. It is beneficial for:

• Patients undergoing active treatment for a serious illness who need help managing symptoms.
• Patients with chronic illnesses who require ongoing symptom management and support.
• Patients in the advanced stages of illness who need comprehensive support for quality of life.

How to Access Palliative Care

Palliative care can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and at home. To access palliative care:

1. Ask Your Doctor: Discuss the option of palliative care with your primary care doctor or specialist. They can refer you to a palliative care team.
2. Contact a Palliative Care Provider: Many hospitals and healthcare systems have dedicated palliative care programs. You can reach out directly to these programs to learn more about available services.
3. Check with Your Insurance: Contact your health insurance provider to understand the coverage options for palliative care services.

Benefits of Palliative Care

• Improved Quality of Life: By effectively managing symptoms and providing emotional and psychological support, palliative care can significantly enhance the quality of life for patients and their families.
• Better Symptom Control: Patients receiving palliative care often experience better control of symptoms such as pain and nausea.
• Support for Families: Palliative care offers crucial support for family members, helping them navigate the emotional and practical challenges of caring for a loved one with a serious illness.
• Holistic Approach: Palliative care addresses the physical, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of serious illness, providing comprehensive care that considers the whole person.

Palliative care is an essential part of the healthcare system, offering compassionate and specialized support for those facing serious illnesses. It emphasizes comfort, dignity, and quality of life, ensuring that patients and their families receive the care and support they need during challenging times.