Palliative care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) is specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. It is provided by a specially-trained team of doctors, nurses and other specialists who work together with your other doctors to provide an extra layer of support. The goal is to improve your quality of life.
To do this, the palliative care team will:
Relieve your symptoms and distress
Help you better understand your disease and diagnosis
Help clarify your treatment goals and options
Understand and support your ability to cope with your illness
Assist you with making medical decision
Coordinate with your other doctors