What is Palliative Care?
For many people, hospice care and palliative care are interchangeable terms. However, not everyone who qualifies for palliative care is eligible for hospice care – and those who could benefit from hospice might not benefit from palliative care. Let’s take a closer look at palliative care by exploring the program’s benefits, how it differs from hospice care, who qualifies for these services, and more.
Differences Between Palliative and Hospice Care
Both palliative care and hospice care are specialized programs that emphasize patient comfort and support. Palliative care is broader care, available to anyone dealing with serious illness at any stage of their disease progression.
Hospice care is reserved for terminally ill patients - those who have six months or less to live. Hospice care is centered around patient comfort and caregiver support, helping patients and their families navigate end-of-life.
When a patient elects palliative care services, a palliative care team works with their primary care physician to develop the best care plan for the patient. Finally, palliative care recipients are not required to forfeit their curative treatment options.
Who is Palliative Care For?
Palliative care is enhanced medical care for individuals of any age living with severe illnesses at any stage of their disease progression. Palliative care focuses on providing patients with symptom management, relief from the stress of dealing with serious illness, and support to achieve personal care goals.
At Community Hospice & Palliative Care, we have a nationally recognized pediatric palliative and hospice care program for children living in Northeast and North Central Florida. Our Community PedsCare program provides children from prenatal to age 21 with compassionate, holistic care during every step of their medical journey.
Our Palliative Care Team is With You
When a patient begins palliative care services, a specialized professional works closely with them and their primary care physician to develop a care plan that provides relief from pain and symptoms. Our palliative care team helps patients when making important decisions by explaining care options and establishing care goals. They also focus on providing patients with emotional and spiritual support, helping patients and their families work through relational issues.
Pain and Symptom Management
Palliative care doesn't just focus on relieving physical pain and symptoms, but on providing spiritual support and help with daily needs through a support team of medical professionals who help establish meaningful care goals.
Where is Palliative Care Provided?
Palliative care is provided in multiple locations. These could be in a hospital, nursing home, assisted living facility, or traditional home setting.
How Long Does Palliative Care Last?
Palliative care follows a patient throughout the continuum of their illness. As progression of illness takes place, your doctor may recommend additional support with hospice services.
How do I pay for Palliative Care?
Medicare, Medicaid, and some insurance policies may cover palliative care. It is important to consult your insurance provider to understand your benefits. Veterans may also be eligible to receive palliative care through the Department of Veteran Affairs.
How do I Apply for Palliative Care?
If you are ready to learn more about Community Hospice & Palliative Care’s palliative program, you can call, (904) 407-7700 to talk with someone who can help you.
Quick Links
Click the links below to visit our Hospice Care page, subscribe to The Foundation Newsletter, or visit our Palliative Care page.