What is palliative care?
Palliative care is a specialty of medicine that is relatively new but the principles of palliative care are deeply rooted in the history of medicine. Palliative care focuses on caring for patients facing life-threatening or serious illnesses. Our priority is to identify symptoms that may be distressing and to treat them aggressively. We strive to maximize patients’ comfort and improve overall quality of life.
Why has my doctor recommended a palliative care consultation?
Your doctor may have suggested a palliative care consultation because you have significant symptoms such as pain or shortness of breath or nausea that may need aggressive, special management. Or, he/she might have noticed that your illness or the illness of your loved one is taking an emotional, financial or spiritual toll. We can help to identify the sources of suffering and make recommendations to alleviate that suffering. Also, the palliative care team helps families and patients to discuss goals for care and to prepare any advance directives such as a living will or durable power of attorney for health care.
What can I expect from a palliative care consultation?
A doctor and nurse who are specialists in palliative care will do an assessment. First we will review your record and speak with your other doctors. Then, we will meet with you or your loved one to do a thorough history and physical exam. If indicated, we will arrange a family meeting to discuss your current health situation, prognosis, options and goals for care. Finally, we will document our findings in the medical record and make recommendations for therapy. If indicated, we will make referrals to social service, pastoral care, or hospice.
Is there a cost for palliative care services?
Palliative care services are provided by The Christ Hospital and currently, we do not bill insurance for these consultations, nor is there a charge to your or your family.
Is there outpatient follow-up for palliative care?
Currently, we do not have an outpatient clinic. However, we encourage you to contact us if you have questions or concerns after discharge.
How do I receive palliative care services?
A palliative care consultation requires a doctor’s order. However, if you feel that you or your loved one needs palliative care consultation services and your doctor has not recommended it, you can ask your doctor if you might benefit from palliative care services and he or she can call us for a consultation.
We hope that we will be able to meet your needs and help to make your hospital stay more comfortable.