cancercare

Palliative Care & Pain Management Center

    • Home
    • Palliative Care & Pain Management Center

Search

Contact Us On Whatsapp

Cancer Care Services & Supports





    What is Palliative Care?

    Palliative care is care given to improve the quality of life of patients who have a serious or life-threatening disease such as cancer.
    The goal is not to cure but to prevent or treat symptoms and side effects of the disease and its treatment, along with psychological, social, and spiritual issues.
    It is also called comfort care, supportive care, or symptom management.

    When is Palliative Care Used in Cancer Care?

    Palliative care begins at diagnosis and continues throughout treatment, follow-up care, and the end of life. It accompanies all stages of the cancer journey.

    Who Gives Palliative Care?

    Any healthcare professional may provide elements of palliative care. However, palliative care specialists focus on managing symptoms, side effects, and emotional issues.
    Care is usually given by a multidisciplinary team including doctors, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, social workers, psychologists, and chaplains.

    Does Palliative Care Replace Cancer Treatment?

    No. Palliative care is given in addition to cancer treatment.
    If cancer treatment is no longer effective or warranted, palliative care becomes the main focus to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

    Palliative Care vs Hospice

    Palliative care can begin at any stage of a serious illness, alongside curative treatment.
    Hospice care is a form of palliative care provided when cancer therapies are no longer controlling the disease, usually with a life expectancy of 6 months or less. It focuses on caring, not curing.

    Where Do Patients Receive Palliative Care?

    Patients may receive care in cancer centers, hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or at home under physician or hospice supervision.
    Specialized programs may focus on pain, lymphedema, sexual health, or psychosocial support.

    What Issues Are Addressed?

    • Physical: Pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, insomnia.
    • Emotional & Coping: Support for depression, anxiety, fear, family counseling, support groups.
    • Practical: Help with finances, insurance, legal issues, advance directives, housing, transport.
    • Spiritual: Guidance in exploring beliefs and values for peace and acceptance.

    Support for Families

    Families also receive palliative care support. This includes help managing caregiver stress, emotional support, and guidance with medical or daily responsibilities.

    Palliative Care at End of Life

    Transitioning from treatment to end-of-life care is an important part of palliative care.
    Teams prepare patients and families for physical changes, address emotional and spiritual issues, and provide grief counseling and hospice transition support.

    Coverage & Costs

    Palliative care services are usually covered by health insurance. Medicare and Medicaid also provide coverage depending on circumstances.
    Patients should consult hospital financial counselors or social workers for guidance.

    Research that Shows Palliative Care is Beneficial?

    Yes. Research shows that palliative care and its many components are beneficial to patient and family health and well-being. A number of studies in recent years have shown that patients who have their symptoms controlled and are able to communicate their emotional needs have a better experience with their medical care. Their quality of life and physical symptoms improve. In addition, the Institute of Medicine 2007 report Cancer Care for the Whole Patient cites many studies that show patients are less able to adhere to their treatment and manage their illness and health when physical and emotional problems are present. To view this report, go to http://www.iom.edu/Reports/2007/Cancer-Care-for-the-Whole-Patient-Meeting-Psychosocial-Health-Needs.aspxExit Disclaimer.

    Does NCI Support Palliative Care Research?

    Yes. NCI supports a number of projects, including clinical trials, in the area of symptom management and palliative care. The following links will launch real-time searches of NCIs list of cancer clinical trials for supportive and palliative care that are currently enrolling participants. The search results can be further narrowed by trial location, drug name, intervention type, and other criteria.