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Palliative care refers to medical attention that aims to provide relief rather than treatment. People might require this care if they experience a serious or chronic illness, such as cancer, kidney disease, or Alzheimer’s. Each individualized care plan is designed to improve the patient’s quality of life. Below are a few answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject.

Understanding Palliative Care

What Does It Include?

Palliative care typically encompasses any medical intervention that relieves symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms may be caused by the illness itself or by the treatments used to combat the disease.

Who Benefits From This Kind of Care?

palliative careBoth patients and their loved ones benefit from palliative care. Patients gain a better understanding of their treatment goals and continued access to knowledgeable medical professionals, especially when making health care decisions. The patient’s family members get peace of mind knowing their relative is receiving compassionate care from qualified providers.

Does Insurance Cover It?

Most insurance plans cover at least some portion of the costs associated with palliative care, as do Medicare and Medicaid. If your family is struggling to make up the difference, some home health care providers offer manageable payment plans.

What Is the Difference Between Hospice & Palliative Care?

Both hospice and palliative care aim to provide comfort; however, there are a few major differences between the two. For example, palliative care can begin upon diagnosis alongside more conventional treatments. Hospice, on the other hand, is for patients who have exhausted all their treatment options, so it doesn’t start until there are no other medical interventions worth trying.

 

If your loved one could benefit from palliative care, turn to Lifetime CareWith several locations throughout New York’s Finger Lakes region, they provide individualized service for 33,000 patients and their families. Visit their website to find the office nearest you, or call (800) 724-1410 to discuss your family’s caregiving needs today. 

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