How Palliative Care at St. Luke’s Can Help

Caring for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients dealing with chronic illness

Palliative care is dedicated to caring for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients dealing with chronic, life-limiting illness. The care is both medical and non-medical. Palliative care is both a philosophy of care and an organized system for delivering the most appropriate care.

Palliative Care Services can help you and your family control the pain and symptoms of your condition and achieve a sense of control over your situation. Because palliative care addresses both medical and non-medical issues, your care team can also support your family, keep lines of communication open and honest, strengthen your relationships with loved ones and ensure that your wishes are honored.

Is Palliative Care the Same as Hospice?

No. Hospice provides care for you and your family in the last six months of life in a variety of settings (home, nursing homes, inpatient Hospice House). Palliative care can benefit you and your family earlier in the disease process. However, the Palliative Care team and Hospice team often work together to provide the most appropriate and effective care for you and your family at all stages of your illness.

Who Provides Palliative Care Services?

Palliative care services are provided by a medical director, a nurse/coordinator, a social worker and a pastoral care chaplain. This special team of experts works in conjunction with your doctor, nurse and other caregivers to assess your needs and provide care for you and your family.

The Palliative Care team offers expertise in areas such as...

• Reducing and managing symptoms of your condition such as anxiety, depression, pain, nausea and others
• Dealing with changing goals of care, assisting with advanced directives and discussing treatment options including the benefits and burdens of care
• Listening and providing support through all stages of illness, identifying what is important to you and your family, communicating your wishes and providing spiritual and emotional support
• Assisting with discharge from the hospital, coordinating insurance and community services and helping with needed referrals for care at home or another setting

For more information about Palliative Care, please contact the Palliative Care Team Coordinator at 610-954-3648.