Palliative care has been growing in popularity recently, and more patients are asking their physicians about it.
But what exactly is palliative care, and how does it differ from regular medical treatment? If you’re interested in palliative care and would like to learn more about the different facets of it, read on for Questions to Ask About Palliative Care to your physician.
How do you know if you need palliative care?
The biggest determining factor to whether you need palliative care is what’s causing your symptoms. For example, someone with a terminal illness or progressive condition will likely benefit from palliative care because it addresses physical and psychological symptoms like pain and fatigue.
However, if your main symptom is an acute condition, such as appendicitis or pneumonia, you probably don’t need palliative care because it focuses on managing chronic conditions that aren’t curable.
Also keep in mind that there are no clear lines between hospice and palliative care; many patients get both at some point in their journey. One of the most common misperceptions about palliative care is that it’s only for end-of-life situations.
Are there different levels of palliative care?
In most cases, there are no levels to palliative care; it is a form of treatment that can be used in any situation. However, there is often a difference between hospice care and home-based palliative care – with hospice care typically being reserved for end-of-life situations.
If you or your loved one is on hospice, they will receive medical support until their death; if you or your loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal illness but isn’t on hospice, then home-based palliative care may be more appropriate.
A common misconception about hospice is that it’s only for people who have six months or less to live.
This isn’t true: Hospice patients can have as much as two years to live. The main distinction between hospice and other forms of palliative care is that its goal is comfort rather than cure.
How are palliative care patients monitored or tracked over time?
Just because a patient is receiving palliative care does not mean that his or her health is fully managed, or their symptoms are well controlled.
In fact, pain and other symptoms for many patients with chronic diseases can worsen over time as organ systems begin to fail.
If you have a loved one who is receiving palliative care, it’s important to ask how he or she will be monitored over time—and if they will undergo regular assessments of their symptoms and needs.
What services do you provide?
It may seem obvious, but make sure your loved one knows what services are included in your family member’s palliative care plan. Ask about hospice services, home health aides and any other support available to your family member at home.
Conclusion
Having a frank conversation about end-of-life care can be difficult, but it is important to consider these Questions to Ask About Palliative Care so that you can plan ahead for your loved ones’ final wishes.
Remember, planning in advance allows everyone involved to feel as though their wishes will be honored when they can no longer speak for themselves. If you have any additional questions regarding palliative care, please contact your physician or consult a palliative care specialist.
Whether you are in office for a routine physical, a new medical concern or as part of management for an ongoing condition, your health outcomes and your peace of mind can benefit significantly from asking smart questions of your physicianTo make the most of your next appointment, come armed with these questions to ask doctors.
