PALLIATIVE CARE

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

HOW DO I KNOW IF PALLIATIVE CARE IS RIGHT FOR ME?

If any one of the below statements apply, you are a candidate for palliative care:

  • If you have been diagnosed with a serious illness which may not be curable

  • If you have unrelieved symptoms in spite of medical treatment, such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, weakness or low energy

  • If you have symptoms that are significantly impacting your quality of life and daily activities (frequent hospital and/or doctor’s office visits to manage symptoms)

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING PALLIATIVE CARE?

  • Improved quality of life

  • Symptom management

  • Disease education

  • Attention to emotional and spiritual needs

  • 24 hour telephone access

  • Guidance making complex treatment choices

  • Assistance with advanced care planning