Seasons of Life
Support During Serious Illness Hospice Vs. Palliative Care
By Linda Barnes
When you or a loved one needs specialized care during a serious illness, palliative care can significantly improve quality of life, easing symptoms and providing support. Hospice care, on the other hand, brings comfort to those experiencing a terminal illness. Both specialties address the challenges and improve the well-being of patient and caregiver. The aims of hospice and palliative care are similar, but there is a difference. Palliative care may begin at diagnosis and occur along with treatment. Hospice is specialized care when recovery is not expected and curative treatment is stopped. Palliative care is relatively new, becoming a defined medical specialty in 2006. I was not familiar with it until my sister-in-law developed a debilitating illness six years ago. Many fellowships are available in the United States to train doctors, nurse practitioners, and social workers in palliative care. Most large hospitals now have palliative care teams. Palliative care affirms life and provides relief from pain and distress. It includes psychological and spiritual care, encourages an active life, and offers support to the family of the person who is ill. Palliative care benefits those with illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, kidney failure, dementia, AIDS, or ALS. Patients can remain under the care of their regular doctor as they receive treatment. A palliative care team might include doctors, nurses, physician assistants, dietitians, social workers, psychologists, massage therapists, or chaplains.
The goal of palliative care is to help patients feel better while they undergo treatment for serious illness. Symptoms caused by the illness or the treatment are eased. The stress, fear, or anxiety that treatment can bring are attended to, and spiritual challenges can be explored. Treatment often causes nausea, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, or pain. Palliative care is an extra layer of support, addressing all of these. Palliative care teams can also help with logistical challenges like understanding medical forms or treatment choices, obtaining financial counseling, and securing housing or transportation during treatment. Look for palliative care services at hospitals, clinics, home care agencies, cancer centers, or rehabilitation facilities. Though it is often covered by health insurance, including Medicare or Medicaid, check with your provider. A social worker or hospital’s financial counselor may be able to help.
Getting you back to the good life.
Brandon Staub, MD | Douglas Spurgeon, MD | C. Weston Whitten, MD
402-488-PAIN www.nebraskapaininstitute.com
14 NE Pain.indd
1
November 2020
10/8/20 3:08 PM
