Who Provides Palliative Care?
Palliative care is provided by doctors who are specially trained in providing palliative medicine, as well as a team of caregivers, including nurses, social workers, chaplains, physical therapists, dietitians, volunteers and others. Palliative doctors work with the patient's other doctors, who may be providing treatments to cure the illness.
Will You Still Be Able to See Your Personal Doctor if You Receive Palliative Care?
Absolutely. Your palliative doctor coordinates care with your other doctors and helps you navigate the often-complex healthcare system.
How can a patient find palliative care? If you are interested in palliative care, ask your personal doctor to refer you to a palliative doctor or inquire whether your local hospital has a palliative specialist.
Where is Palliative Care Available?
Palliative care is available nationwide, and can be provided in the hospital, in a patient's home or in a healthcare facility, such as a nursing home.