Palliative Care

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Providing Comfort and Support

Palliative care brings physical and emotional support to patients with severe or chronic illnesses. It focuses on treating the symptoms of a condition to provide pain relief and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Learn more about comfort-first care.

With Sanford Palliative Care, we’ll work with you every day, discussing your needs and goals. In addition to treating your symptoms, we’ll cater to your non-medical needs. We provide emotional and spiritual support to you and your family. Your needs and health care desires are always our priority.

 

Palliative Care vs. Hospice Care

Palliative care benefits patients with terminal illnesses as well as ongoing or painful conditions. It is not just for end-of-life care. Patients at all stages of a chronic or difficult illness can benefit from palliative care.

Our palliative care and hospice specialists both focus on improving your quality of life. These services are similar in the patient-centered care they provide. Hospice care is usually offered as part of end-of-life care.

 

Caring for Your Symptoms

We partner with you to ease distressing symptoms that can interrupt your everyday life and affect your ability to thrive, such as:

  • Pain

  • Shortness of breath

  • Fatigue

  • Constipation

  • Nausea

  • Loss of appetite

  • Problems with sleep

Pain management is an important part of palliative care. We’ll work with you to identify your pain level and the best strategies for relief. An essential part of pain management is to treat pain right away before it gets worse. If you’re concerned about your pain, talk to your provider right away. Learn more about pain management and palliative care.

 

Speak to a Specialist

To receive palliative care, talk to the health care provider treating your condition. You’ll discuss why you wish to receive palliative care, your health goals and which services would most benefit you. Specialists can treat you in your home or in a clinic or hospital setting.

Learn more about palliative care in our FAQ below.

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FAQ

Who provides palliative care? My regular doctor?

Any medical professional can be part of who provides palliative care. There are certain providers who specialize in it. They may include doctors, nurses, dietitians, social workers, psychologists, therapists and chaplains.

What is involved with palliative care treatment?

This might mean anything from a counseling session with a social worker to a massage by a therapist. Your care team will evaluate what might be beneficial to your health and care and will talk to you about the options.

Is palliative care only provided to patients admitted to the hospital?

No. Palliative care can be provided on an inpatient or outpatient basis. It is appropriate for patients but could also be used to support caregivers or family members.

What is the difference between palliative care and hospice?

Both of these services focus on providing support and comfort. The difference is palliative care may be appropriate at any time during and throughout diagnosis and treatment. It does not necessarily mean the patient won't get better or be cured.

What is a chronic illness?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a chronic illness is one lasting three months or more. This may include illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, kidney failure, dementia, HIV/AIDS and ALS.

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