Palliative Care for Cancer Patients: Enhancing Your Journey
More than just extending life, palliative care adds life to your days.
You can receive palliative care alongside treatments. Palliative care focuses on relieving and preventing distressing symptoms caused by the disease and its treatment while improving your quality of life as you define it.
Who Can Benefit?
Palliative care can benefit any cancer patient experiencing symptoms that affect their daily life. This includes pain, fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath, and anxiety and depression related to treatment and/or cancer itself.
It can also help with the decision-making process regarding goals of care.
Our palliative care specialist will working alongside your oncologist to provide an extra layer of support. This comprehensive approach is available at any stage of your cancer journey.
Benefits of Early Integration
Studies show that early involvement of palliative care, specifically for cancer patients, leads to:
- Clearer understanding of your cancer and prognosis
- Greater control over treatment choices
- Improved satisfaction with your care plan and providers
- Enhanced quality of life, with better management of pain and other symptoms
- Treatments that better align with your goals and wishes
- Reduced depression and anxiety
Francesco Standoli MD
Palliative CarePalliative Care vs. Hospice
Hospice is a specialized form of palliative care specifically for patients with a life expectancy of six months or less. Unlike hospice, traditional palliative care can coexist with curative treatments aimed at extending life.
The Difference from Regular Care
Traditional medicine focuses on curing or treating the cancer itself. Palliative care, however, prioritizes your comfort and wishes. It ensures your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are addressed. You'll receive comprehensive information about your cancer, including prognosis and treatment options, empowering you to make informed decisions. Palliative care provides that crucial support system throughout your cancer journey.
Benefits Beyond the Patient
Palliative care benefits everyone involved. You and your family are the primary focus, but your doctors and nurses also gain peace of mind knowing they're providing care that improves your quality of life.
At New Mexico Cancer Center we are committed to your comfort and well-being. Our team closely monitors your condition and is available to address any concerns, symptoms, or side effects promptly. You can reach us by phone anytime, and we offer same-day appointments when needed.