Frequently Asked Questions about Palliative Care Who benefits from Palliative Care? Anyone who has a serious illness affecting quality of life or causing significant discomfort Anyone who has questions about their treatment plan or needs additional support What can our Palliative Care team do for you? Treat your pain and symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, depression and anxiety Help you maintain the most comfortable, independent and active life possible Provide answers, assistance and emotional support to you and your family when making difficult medical decisions Help coordinate care and treatment with your doctors and care team Identify support services to help you What can I expect from Palliative Care? Relief from distressing symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping Improved ability to carry on with your life Improved ability to tolerate medical treatment Better understanding of your medical condition and medical choices When is the right time for Palliative Care? Palliative Care helps during all stages of serious illness. It is best introduced early, alongside curative treatment. Is Palliative Care the same as hospice care? No, hospice care is meant specifically for those approaching the last stages of life. Palliative care is appropriate for all stages of a serious illness. How and where can I get Palliative Care? To begin palliative care, ask your doctor for a referral. We can help you while at Highland or help you find outpatient care.