Perhaps one of the most important things someone facing a terminal illness needs to know is that healthcare tools and expertise are there to cure as much as possible, but always and simultaneously to care to heal, but also to help. This idea is at the core of palliative care. Gone are the days of simply “attacking” an illness or “fighting” a disease. Just as important is offering care for the mind, body, and spirit not just for patients, but for their loved ones, too. In this CareNote, the author notes how palliative care differs from hospice care, and identifies questions patients and family members should ask to get the most from palliative care.

By Dick Sparks, C.S.P.