Palliative Care

Palliative care specializes in the relief of the pain and other symptoms, while helping patients and families cope with the stress of serious illness. The goal is to improve quality of life for patients and their families. Palliative care is appropriate at any point in a serious illness and can be combined with treatment intended to cure the disease.  A key benefit of palliative care is that it customizes treatment to meet the needs of each individual.

Palliative care aims to relieve symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping, and help patients gain the strength to carry on with daily life. It improves their ability to tolerate medical treatments. And it helps them better understand their choices for care. Overall, palliative care attempts to provide patients the best possible quality of life during their illness.

The OSU palliative care team includes physicians, advance practice nurses, and a full-time psychologist. The team works closely with social workers, pharmacists, nutritionists, therapists, and other disciplines to provide comprehensive care.  Working in partnership with your primary doctor, the palliative care team provides:

·         Expert treatment of pain and other symptoms

·         Clear communication

·         Help navigating the healthcare system

·         Guidance with difficult and complex treatment choices

·         Detailed practical information and assistance

·         Emotional and spiritual support for the patient and family