Palliative Care - The Help You Need to Live Life Your Way

As the world of medicine constantly evolves and improves, new innovative treatment options are becoming more readily available to patients. From cancer clinical trials to developmental medications that are intended to reduce the effects of long-term illnesses, the options are vast. This can sometimes be overwhelming for patients and their families, as they navigate the medical industry alongside their illness.

However, what many people don’t think about is life outside of treating the disease directly. Those experiencing a serious illness have more to deal with than just choosing treatment options. They also have a daily life that is significantly affected by their illness. Managing a patient's quality of life, pain, and sleep schedule are only a few ways that palliative care professionals work alongside a patient to uncover individualized solutions. When a patient needs assistance dealing with the effects of their illness, as it impacts their daily life, palliative care professionals can help.

What is Palliative Care?

Palliative care is intended to provide caregiving and relief to people dealing with long-term illnesses. The treatment doesn't necessarily provide cures or treatments for the diseases, but rather the effects brought on by these illnesses. Aspects of a patient's life such as pain relief, fatigue management, appetite adjustment, and even stress management are a few of the things that patients can receive help with from a palliative care professional.

Jessica Burns, AGNP-C Archbold's Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner says, "Every patient that steps through my door is more than a number. They are a living breathing human that deserves an individualized and holistic approach. Through palliative care, I’m able to provide them with the custom care options they need".

Burns knows that each patient will require unique care, which is why she takes the time to get to know each of her patients one-on-one.

"It's more than an appointment. It's a way for me to get to know you, listen to your concerns, and truly dedicate that time to map out a plan", Burns states.

The main goal of palliative care is to help patients improve their quality of life. Focusing on pain reduction, so a patient can go shopping in comfort. Helping develop a sleep schedule, so a patient can wake up refreshed and ready to take on the day.

“We want you to live your life and we’re here to help make that happen,” said Burns.

Who Is It For?

Palliative care is intended for patients dealing with chronic, serious, or complex illnesses. While it’s common for care to be provided towards the end of life, palliative care is offered to patients of any age or prognosis if they require help managing their disease.

There are no limits to age, diagnosis, or disease to be recommended for care. Some of the most common illnesses that can see relief from palliative care include:

• Alzheimer’s
• Cancer
• Parkinson’s
• Kidney Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis

How Does It Work?

Palliative care can be provided in a multitude of locations. Often, care is received within a hospital, but outpatient treatment is becoming more and more common. Comfort is the priority for patients, so speak with your team about what options are available.

How Do You Get Palliative Care?

How do you get palliative care? Ask for it! A doctor’s order is required to receive palliative care, and the many benefits are becoming much more widely known and accepted.

Speak to your doctor about receiving palliative care as early as possible in your illness so you can continue living your life as you deserve.

For more information on Archbold’s Palliative Care Program, call 229.228.8436 or click here.