Health Library

What is palliative care?

Palliative care is care that makes patients as comfortable as possible and that prevents
and relieves suffering. And, although it is part of end-of-life care, it can be applied
to care for people in any stage of disease. Palliative care allows for medical therapies,
but focuses on:

• Improving quality of life

• Reaching the best possible function (for example, daily activities, physical activity,
  self care)

• Helping with decision-making about end-of-life care

• Providing emotional support to patients and their families

Walk with your health care provider or local hospital about whether or not palliative
care is available in your area. Check with your health plan to see whether this type
of care is covered.

What are the patient’s rights?

Patient’s rights are a list of rights to ensure that the quality of care, respect,
and decision-making processes will be honored by the company, individual, or institution
that is providing his or her care. These rights will be given to the patient and family
before care begins. It is similar to a contract that provides protection for the patient
and family, and informs them of services and limitations of the caregiver(s).

What are palliative care services?

The services most palliative care providers can offer are extensive. The following
are some of the services offered:

• Psychosocial support and intervention to help the patient and family members

• Equipment for delivery of medications, nutrition, oxygen, and suction

• Equipment including special beds, toilets, chairs, wheelchairs, and bath requirements

• Skilled nursing care, doctors, pharmacists, and other specialists

• Medication and nutrition support

• Spiritual, religious, and cultural needs and requests

• Special services for siblings or children (for example, support groups)

• Respite care allowing the family to rest

• Bereavement care