Palliative Care

Supportive Medical Care

Palliative care is specialized medical care that provides relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The goal of palliative medicine is to improve the quality of life for you and your family. Firelands Regional Medical Center offers palliative care in the hospital and through our outpatient clinic.

How do I know if palliative care is right for me?

Palliative care can be provided for patients of any age and at any stage of illness along with other treatment you may be receiving. It’s an extra layer of support that improves your quality of life. In addition to medical support for pain, stress, or any other symptoms due to your condition, palliative care offers psychological, emotional and spiritual relief.

What can I expect from palliative care?

Palliative care focuses on ways to provide relief through symptom management, goals of care and treatment, and additional support. You can expect:

• Relief from symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea and loss of sleep.
• To better understand your condition and choices for medical care.
• Additional support for you and your family to navigate your new normal as best as possible.

How does palliative care work with my doctor?

If you suffer from an illness(es) such as heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, HIV/AIDS, ALS, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis or cancer, our palliative care provider will work with your doctor(s) to provide additional help for you and your family.

How do I get started?

To get started, ask your doctor for a referral to a palliative care provider. Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover palliative care like other medical services.