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Palliative care is care for patients that are terminally ill that is provided by a health care professional. You may have heard the term but not known exactly what this involves.
How does Palliative Care help?
Improves quality of life
Palliative care not only manages the pain of the patient, but also provides a more holistic approach to the health of both patient and family. The health professional not only looks at the medical pain management side, but also the social, psychological and spiritual support that is required alongside.
If you have ever or are currently going through this, you will understand that successfully caring for a family member or friend that is terminally ill requires much more than pain management. The support that is required can be overwhelming for any individual not trained in this area.
Unlike hospice care, palliative care can begin from moment of diagnosis through to the end of life. Even in the early stages of diagnosis support is required. The aim for any patient undergoing this care is to improve their quality of life for both the patient and those close to them, especially when disease focused treatment is no longer viable.
Work together with your doctors
Palliative care teams are specialists who work together with you, your family and your other doctors. They provide an extra layer of support when you need it most. In addition to treating your symptoms and stress and supporting you and your family, the palliative care team communicates with all of your doctors so that everyone is on the same page. They support you every step of the way.
We can support patients who are being treated by a variety of medical teams, including the NHS, Private Hospitals, Clinics, District Nurses and specialist teams.
How do I get Palliative Care assistance?
There are a few ways to obtain palliative care assistance.
Ask your primary care doctor for a referral. Using palliative care does not mean you can no longer use your primary care doctor, the specialist team will work alongside your doctor.
You have the option of sourcing specialists privately. There are many specialised agencies that solely offer Palliative care. Speak to other friends and family, or a simple search on the internet can provide you with several options.
Care homes, hospitals, assisted living facilities, nursing homes out-patients and clinics all can offer these services. However, each organisation does differ and may require research.
Where do I look for more information?
Trying to navigate through the minefield of carers can be a difficult time. Please find some further information sources that might help the process easier.
British Medical Journal – a weekly peer-reviewed medical trade journal, published by the trade union the British Medical Association (BMA)
Web MD – The leading source for trustworthy and timely health and medical news and information.
To read more about Palliative care, take a look at these blogs Questions about end of life care, What does end of life care mean? and Palliative care for patients with COVID-19.
How Cavendish Homecare can help
At Cavendish Homecare we specialise in providing high level quality private care. Our team come from all areas of the professional healthcare sector – from Registered nurses to compassionate Family Liaison experts – that’s why we understand that each patient requires individual specialised plans, therefore, we take the time to meet you and your family to plan yours, or your loved one’s personal healthcare requirements.
We have been within private healthcare since 2009 and built up a respected reputation for delivering a professional yet compassionate service. Our services are not restricted to palliative care, we are also able to provide you with;
Live In Care
Cancer Care
Post Operative Home Care
Respite Care
Holiday Care Support
Find out how we can help with your loved ones requirements, alternatively, any other healthcare needs you may be seeking for yourself or loved one.
Contact Cavendish Homecare
Speak to a member of the team today
