Palliative Care

What is Palliative Care?

Palliative (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) care specializes in the relief of pain, difficult symptoms, and stress of a serious illness. The goal is to offer patients and their families the best possible quality of life. It is useful at any stage of an illness. Most importantly, it can be provided at the same time as treatment that is meant to cure you.

Who provides care?

The Palliative Care team is a trained group of health care providers including physicians, advanced practice clinicians, chaplains, a social worker, nurse and volunteers dedicated to helping you maximize your quality of life throughout the course of your illness.

What can I expect?

You can expect to meet a practitioner who will work with you to improve your distressing symptoms. Palliative care helps you carry on with your daily life, and improves your ability to go through medical treatments. It also helps you better understand your condition and choices for medical care.

How do I start receiving care?

Ask for it! Start by talking to your doctor or nurse. Ask your doctor for a referral. The Palliative Care team is available both in the hospital and in the outpatient setting.