Dear Vanessa,My father suffers from a respiratory disease. His health is getting worse and he has been in and out of the hospital several times. As his primary caregiver, I am concerned if his current care is appropriate for his condition. Can you please tell me what the difference is between hospice and palliative care? Thank you.- EdithDEAR EDITH,Hospice and palliative care differ in terms of goals, patients, where care is delivered, and who provides the care.Hospice is a special healthcare option for patients and families faced with a terminal illness (prognosis of 6 months or less). It is appropriate when active treatment is no longer effective and supportive measures are needed to help the terminally ill patient through the dying process. The goals of hospice include: controlling or alleviating the patient’s symptoms; allowing the patient and caregiver to be involved in the decisions regarding the plan of care; providing continuous support to maintain patient/family confidences and reassurances to achieve these goals; and educating and supporting the primary caregiver. Most hospice care happens at home but it can also take place in a setting that best meets the needs of each patient and family: at a hospice center, in a hospital, or in a skilled nursing facility. A multi-disciplinary team of physician, nurses, hospice or home health aides, therapists (as needed), social workers, clergy or bereavement counselors and volunteers works together to address the physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs of each patient and family. The team coordinates and supervises all care around-the-clock. Palliative care is a special form of medical care that helps patients feel relief from the pain, symptoms, and emotional distress caused by a serious illness or its treatment. This is much more than just “comfort care.” The goal of palliative care is to improve how a patient functions each day as well as improve his or her quality of life throughout the course of a serious illness. Palliative care can be used along with treatments meant to cure; it is usually given in hospitals. Sometimes it takes place at nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Palliative care at home is possible but not readily available. Palliative care is a medical subspecialty. This means that doctors and nurses who practice palliative care have extra training about ways to manage symptoms. They work with a team of other professionals.For more information, please check out http://www.pamf.org/palliativecare/what/.
Ask Vanessa: Are hospice and palliative care the same?
By Vanessa Valerio
December 27, 2023
2 mins
Recent Articles
Nasogastric Tube Care and Maintenance
A nasogastric (NG) tube is a common medical device in healthcare. Although using one may seem daunting, with the right knowledge and support, you can manage it effectively. This article guides you through the basics of NG tubes.
By Dee Bustos
6 mins
Overcoming Fear and Finding Purpose: My Journey as a Home Care Agency Co-Founder
The past two years, 2023 and 2024, have been some of the most unforgettable of my life. As the owner of a home care agency, my world has been a whirlwind of highs and lows, filled with triumphs, emotions, challenges, and profound personal discoveries. I’ve faced some of the darkest corners of my mind, moments where the thought of escaping it all felt like a breath of fresh air.
By Vanessa Valerio
5 mins
Understanding End-of-Life Care Options
End-of-life care is a specialized form of medical care and support designed to address the unique needs of individuals nearing the end of their lives. By understanding the various end-of-life care options, you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your loved ones.
By Dee Bustos
14 mins