Palliative care is specialized medical care for people with serious illnesses. It focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of the illness, with the goal of improving quality of life for both the patient and their family.

Palliative care has evolved from primarily focusing on end-of-life care to now providing support for patients at any stage of a serious illness. It has also become more interdisciplinary, involving a team of healthcare professionals to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients.

Advancements in palliative care include the development of specialized palliative care units, the integration of palliative care into other medical specialties, and the use of technology to improve communication and symptom management for patients.

Innovations in palliative care include the use of telemedicine to reach patients in remote areas, the incorporation of complementary therapies such as music therapy and art therapy, and the development of personalized care plans based on the individual needs and preferences of patients.