Navigating serious illness: the role of palliative care in comfort and support

Palliative care plays a vital role in supporting individuals with serious illnesses such as cancer, advanced heart or lung disease, and neurological disorders.

These conditions can bring complex challenges, from pain management to emotional strain, making specialized care essential for maintaining comfort and quality of life.

It provides patients and their families with personalized support to navigate the medical, emotional, and practical aspects of their illness, including coping with grief and loss.

What is palliative care

Palliative care is a specialized approach focused on improving the quality of life for patients of all ages facing chronic, life-altering, or life-limiting conditions. Unlike hospice services, which emphasize end-of-life support, it helps individuals manage symptoms while continuing other medical treatments.

We will hear what those wishes and goals are and then structure the care around that

Dr. Vanessa Little

By preventing and alleviating suffering through early identification, thorough assessment, and effective treatment of pain and other concerns, it provides essential relief throughout the progression of an illness.

Such a comprehensive approach extends beyond physical symptoms. A dedicated team of healthcare professionals collaborates to assist both patients and their families, delivering a range of services that include disease management, symptom control, and spiritual guidance.

In addition to medical support, it addresses practical needs, provides bereavement counseling, and promotes an environment where patients can maintain as much comfort and activity as possible.

Individuals of all ages with serious or life-threatening illnesses can benefit from these services.

Those diagnosed with cancer, blood and bone marrow disorders requiring stem cell transplants, heart disease, kidney failure, dementia, end-stage liver disease, stroke, lung disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other complex medical conditions may find significant relief through palliative care.

By addressing both physical and emotional challenges, it helps patients and their families navigate the complexities of serious illness with greater stability and peace of mind.

Expanding access to palliative care

Modifications in the way supportive care services are provided are making them more available to a larger patient population. These changes include offering assistance or treatment in outpatient clinic settings, through telehealth, and with remote patient monitoring.

According to Dr. Vanessa Little, Medical Director at Northern Light Health’s Palliative Care Service Line, these new methods are crucial.

“We’ve had nurse practitioners who visited people in the home exclusively and now we’re moving to expand the program to a clinic setting and the in-home model is going to be changing a bit,” she stated.

The team comprises doctors, nurses, social workers, volunteers, and spiritual care specialists.

Telehealth and remote monitoring in palliative care

Research shows that supportive care is just as effective whether provided in person or virtually. Telehealth palliative care allows patients to receive support from the comfort of their homes, which is particularly beneficial for those who have difficulty traveling due to their health challenges.

Through remote patient monitoring, doctors can continuously track a patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.

Telehealth sessions also enable distant relatives to participate, ensuring they remain an integral part of the care process. This approach creates a more connected and supportive environment for individuals and their loved ones.

Ensuring continuity of care

The goal of this type of assistance is to create a comfortable environment for patients, allowing them to remain in familiar settings such as their homes or hospitals.

The care team plays a crucial role in facilitating smooth transitions and hospitalizations, ensuring that those receiving treatment receive the necessary support at every stage of their journey.

Depending on individual needs, supportive assistance can be a long-term service, lasting from a few months to several years. This sustained aid helps develop a care strategy closely aligned with the person’s wishes and medical requirements.

Some individuals may choose to receive care in nearby hospitals, while others may opt for higher-intensity treatment. Palliative care complements existing medical care, providing an additional layer of support to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Palliative care preparation and planning

Proper planning is important for managing the challenges associated with serious illnesses. This process includes preparing for future care decisions, adjusting to changes in daily life, and addressing the emotional and spiritual aspects of living with a major health challenge.

Patients are encouraged to discuss their needs with their primary care physician or specialist and formally request a referral to the palliative care program.

The majority of insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid, generally provide coverage for palliative care services. However, many individuals may not fully understand the specifics of this type of care.

Ensuring access to accurate information can help individuals make informed decisions about their care options.

By planning and engaging in open conversations with healthcare providers, patients and their closest kin can reduce stress and ensure that decisions are made with a clear understanding of all available options.

The primary objective remains improving the overall standard of living for both the individual and their loved ones, creating a more fulfilling and comfortable experience.