Palliative care provides comprehensive services to help patients live more comfortably and productively with chronic illnesses, and can be used for years with many chronic illnesses and conditions. It improves the quality of life in patients facing life-threatening illnesses, as well as their families. This is achieved through the prevention and relief of pain, other distressing symptoms, and worries.
This specialized type of care:
- Integrates the psychological and spiritual aspects of patient care
- Offers a support system to help patients and their families cope during difficult times, including bereavement counselling, if requested
- Uses a team approach to address the needs of patients and their families
- Enhances quality of life, and aims to have a positive influence on the illness
- Can be used early in the course of illness in conjunction with other therapies that are intended to prolong life, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy
At United Regional, the Palliative Care team consists of chaplains, social workers, case managers, nurses, advanced practice providers and physicians. When necessary, we also utilize resources from pharmacy, physical therapy, and nutritional services. The team works hand-in-hand with the patient’s other doctors to provide an extra layer of support and comfort for the patient.
Anyone diagnosed with a life-limiting or life-threatening illness or condition can receive a palliative care referral.
Patients typically referred to the program have chronic, long-term illnesses that require recurrent hospitalizations and ongoing follow-up, such as patients living with cancer, heart disease, lung disease, kidney failure, AIDS, liver disease or cystic fibrosis, among others.
While a referral to palliative care can be made at any time, it is best for the patient, family and health care team to access the program as early in the treatment process as possible.
To find out more information about United Regional’s Palliative Care Program or to refer a patient, please call 940-764-4248.