How Palliative Care Can Improve Patient Outcomes and Reduce Healthcare Costs

Palliative care is specialized medical care for people with serious illnesses. Its focus is on improving the quality of life for patients and their families by managing symptoms, providing emotional support, and addressing spiritual needs. Palliative care can be provided in conjunction with curative treatment or as the primary form of care.

Palliative care has been shown to improve patient outcomes in several ways. It can reduce symptoms such as pain, nausea, and fatigue, which can improve a patient’s quality of life. It can also help patients manage the emotional and spiritual distress that often accompanies serious illness. Palliative care can also improve communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers, which can lead to better decision-making and more patient-centered care.

Palliative care can reduce healthcare costs by preventing hospital readmissions and reducing the use of intensive care units and emergency departments. By managing symptoms effectively, palliative care can help patients avoid costly hospital stays and procedures. Palliative care can also reduce the burden on caregivers, who may otherwise need to take time off work or hire additional help to care for a loved one.

Anyone with a serious illness can benefit from palliative care, regardless of age or stage of the illness. Palliative care can be provided to patients with cancer, heart disease, dementia, ALS, and other serious illnesses. It can also be provided to patients who are receiving curative treatment or who have decided to focus on comfort care.

Patients can access palliative care through their healthcare provider or by asking for a referral to a palliative care specialist. Palliative care may be available in hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient clinics. Some palliative care programs also offer home-based care. Patients and families should talk to their healthcare provider about their options for palliative care.