Palliative care and hospice care are both approaches to care that aim to provide comfort and maintain the highest possible quality of life for individuals with serious, typically life-threatening illnesses. However, there are key differences in terms of when each type of care is used, who can receive it, and what services are included. Let's review it...

PALLIATIVE CARE

Palliative care is a type of care that can be administered at any stage of an illness, not just at the end of life. It is designed to relieve symptoms associated with serious illnesses, such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and depression. It can be provided alongside curative treatment and aims to improve the quality of life for patients and their families. Palliative care can be provided in a number of settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term-care facilities, or at home. It can be appropriate for individuals with a range of serious illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, lung diseases, kidney disease, Alzheimer's, and many others.

QUICK NOTES ON PALLIATIVE CARE

• Multidisciplinary Approach: Palliative care involves a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains, who work together to address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients. 
• Focus on Symptom Management: Palliative care aims to alleviate symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for patients. This includes managing pain, controlling symptoms such as nausea or shortness of breath, and addressing psychological and emotional distress.
• Concurrent with Curative Treatment: Unlike hospice care, palliative care can be provided alongside curative treatment. It can begin at any stage of an illness, even if the disease is not considered terminal, and can continue alongside other treatments aimed at curing or prolonging life.

HOSPICE CARE

Hospice care, on the other hand, is a type of palliative care that is specifically designed for patients who are nearing the end of life, typically those who have a prognosis of six months or less, should the disease follow its usual course. While it also focuses on symptom relief, the primary goal of hospice care is to provide comfort and support to the patient and their family, rather than to cure the underlying disease. Hospice care generally includes a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support tailored to the patient's needs and wishes. This care is typically provided in the patient's home but can also be provided in freestanding hospice centers, hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities.

QUICK NOTES ON HOSPICE CARE

• End-of-Life Care: Hospice care is specifically for individuals who are in the final stages of a terminal illness and have a limited life expectancy, typically estimated to be six months or less.
• Comfort and Support: The primary focus of hospice care is to provide comfort, dignity, and support to patients and their families during the end-of-life phase. It emphasizes pain and symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, and assistance with practical matters.
• Holistic Care: Hospice care takes a holistic approach, addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional, social, and spiritual needs. It aims to enhance the quality of life, promote peace, and allow patients to spend their remaining time in a supportive and familiar environment.

ANY OTHER DIFFERENCES?

Hospice care typically provides a comprehensive range of services that are specifically tailored to the needs of individuals who are in the final stages of a terminal illness. While palliative care and hospice care share many similarities, there are some services that are commonly covered under hospice care but may not be as readily available in general palliative care.

Here are some examples:

1. 24/7 Availability: Hospice care often provides around-the-clock availability of healthcare professionals who can respond to urgent needs and provide support whenever required. This ensures that patients and their families have access to assistance and guidance at any time, offering peace of mind during challenging moments.

2. Bereavement Support: Hospice care typically offers bereavement support to the family members and loved ones of patients, both during the patient's illness and after their passing. This can include counseling, support groups, and resources to help individuals navigate the grieving process and adjust to life after their loss.

3. Medical Equipment and Supplies: Hospice care often covers the provision and delivery of necessary medical equipment and supplies, such as hospital beds, wheelchairs, oxygen therapy equipment, wound care supplies, and medications related to the terminal illness. This ensures that patients have access to the necessary resources to manage their symptoms and maintain comfort.

It's important to note that the availability of specific services and the extent of coverage can vary. We always welcome questions. We'd love to talk to you regarding your situation.