Question 1

What is palliative care?

Accepted Answer

Palliative care offers comprehensive treatment for the pain, discomfort, and stress of chronic illnesses. We work in partnership with your primary treatment in order to mitigate pain and improve your life's quality.

Question 2

If I need palliative care does that mean that I'm dying?

Accepted Answer

The need for palliative care does not necessarily mean that you are dying. The function of palliative care is to address uncomfortable or painful symptoms such as difficulty breathing, nausea, loss of appetite, and others.

Question 3

How do you know if you need palliative care?

Accepted Answer

Both children and adults living with illnesses such as cancer, lung or heart disease, kidney failure, cystic fibrosis, AIDS, and other illnesses may face both physical and emotional discomfort related to the illness. You may need palliative care if you suffer from pain related to your illness, have pain that is not under control, or if you need help understanding and managing your illness.

Question 4

Where is palliative care provided?

Accepted Answer

You can receive care in your home, at the hospital, or at outpatient clinics. You will start the process by receiving a referral from your health care provider.

Question 5

Who pays for palliative care?

Accepted Answer

Most insurance plans cover palliative services. Medicaid and Medicare will typically cover these expenses. If you have any questions or concerns about the cost of care, a care manager, social worker, or financial adviser at your clinic can help.

Question 6

How will my symptoms be managed?

Accepted Answer

If you have any pain related to your illness that is not relieved by over the counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, your palliative team may recommend prescription medications. 
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Your team will work to educate you on different pain management approaches, as well as medication education, so that you will understand how your medications work and if there are any side effects.

Understanding Palliative Care

Ocean Breeze Palliative Care

CONTACT US

Phone: 831-293-7096
Fax: 831.293.7097

Understanding Palliative Care

Ocean Breeze Palliative Care

CONTACT US

Phone: 831-293-7096 Fax: 831.293.7097

Phone: 831-293-7096
Fax: 831.293.7097