Palliative: How is it different?

Who is Eligible?

Where is it provided?

How do I Begin?

Who provides care?

How is it paid for?

How is palliative care different than hospice care?

 

Palliative care is for patients with any serious or complex chronic illness. Hospice care is designed for terminally ill patients with a life expectancy of six months or less.

Palliative care also is used in tandem with curative care. In fact, palliative care can be very effective in managing or offsetting side effects of curative treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Hospice care, on the other hand, is intended for patients who are seeking comfort care instead of a cure. Hospice patients typically forgo receiving further curative treatments.

Our approach to palliative care emphasizes living well while coping with a serious illness.

Who is eligible for palliative care?

Patients who are affected by the symptoms and stress of any serious or complex chronic illness may be eligible for palliative care. Many patients have conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, cancer or multiple sclerosis – conditions that often are accompanied by pain, shortness of breath, nausea and/or loss of mobility. Palliative Care helps keep these symptoms under control to make the patient more comfortable and able to live life more fully.

Our expert services are provided regardless of race, religion, age, gender or sexual orientation.

Where is palliative care provided?

Tri-Cities Chaplaincy provides services wherever the patient calls home. Whether living in a private residence, assisted living facility, or nursing home, patients are more comfortable in familiar surroundings. The Tri-Cities Chaplaincy team comes to you, so comfort begins without the stress and hassle of leaving home. Many patients have found that the interventions of palliative care have enabled them to stay at home instead of making frequent trips to the emergency room when symptoms get out of control. Palliative care at home also has helped patients avoid hospitalization.

How do I begin palliative care?

The best way is to call us directly at (509) 783-7416 to discuss your exact needs and how we may be able to help. Our team will coordinate care with the patient’s primary care physician.

If you call Tri-Cities Chaplaincy first, we can assess the patient’s condition and contact the primary care physician to get a referral and develop a plan of care together. There’s no cost or obligation to call Tri-Cities Chaplaincy for an assessment.

Who provides palliative care?

Tri-Cities Chaplaincy’s Palliative Care is a holistic approach that begins by coordinating care with the patient’s primary care physician. Our palliative care team includes:

  • A Physician specializing in palliative care is available for consultation with the primary care physician.
  • A nurse practitioner is skilled in pain and symptom management.
  • A nurse provides education, assessment, and support information.
  • A chaplain helps patients and families cope with a serious illness while finding hope and meaning through treatments and goals.
  • A social worker addresses social determinants of health and provide additional resources.
  • A therapist who will address behavioral health challenges which may include mental health, suicide, and substance use disorders.

How is palliative care paid for?

Care may be covered by Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or private benefits. A representative from Tri-Cities Chaplaincy will gladly review the recommended services and check with the patient’s benefits provider to confirm coverage.