Corpus Christi Palliative

Generally, palliative care should start as soon as a serious illness is diagnosed. The earlier palliative care begins, the more likely it is that the patient and their family will receive the help they need to manage their symptoms and cope with the diagnosis. Care should continue throughout the course of a patient’s illness, from the time they are diagnosed to end-of-life care. Treatment may also overlap with other types of medical treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer patients.

Additionally, the palliative care team will work closely with the patient’s health care team to ensure that the palliative care plan is coordinated with other forms of treatment. It is beneficial to start palliative care even if a cure is still possible, as this helps to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life while other treatments are ongoing. Care should not be considered an alternative to other treatments but rather as an additional layer of support and comfort. Palliative care can be beneficial at any stage of a serious illness and should not be delayed until the end of life.

Care may bring comfort and relief to patients and their families, it does not replace other forms of medical treatment. Palliative care helps complement existing treatments and provide additional support for patients and their families during difficult times.