Palliative care focuses on the following:
Symptom relief: Palliative care is not focused on curing the underlying disease, but rather on managing the symptoms of the illness to make the patient more comfortable. This can include things like pain management, controlling nausea and vomiting, and helping with shortness of breath.
Available at any stage of illness: Palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, from the time of diagnosis through the end of life. It can be provided alongside other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Team-based approach: Palliative care is typically provided by a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other specialists. This team works together to coordinate the patient's care and provide support to the patient and their family. Emphasis on patient and family needs: Palliative care is focused on meeting the needs of the patient and their family. This can include addressing emotional and spiritual concerns, as well as providing support for practical issues like managing medications and coordinating care.
Goal is to improve quality of life: The ultimate goal of palliative care is to improve the quality of life for the patient and their family. This can include managing symptoms to make the patient more comfortable, but it can also involve things like providing support for decision-making and helping the patient and their family to understand their options and make choices about their care.
Rishi Patel, DO
Dr. Rishi Patel is CBCC’s palliative care specialist, helping patients maintain their quality of life throughout their cancer journey. Dr. Patel will work with you and your family, as well as your oncologist and other doctors to provide you the best care possible while ensuring your comfort and quality of life.