The appropriate timing for beginning palliative care depends on the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. In general, palliative care can begin at any stage of a serious or chronic illness, including at the time of diagnosis.
It is recommended that palliative care be integrated into a person’s overall care plan as early as possible in the illness trajectory. This allows for the palliative care team to provide support and symptom management throughout the course of the illness, rather than waiting until the end-of-life stage.
In some cases, palliative care may begin concurrently with curative treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer. The goal of this approach is to manage symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life while also treating the underlying illness.
Starting palliative care early can also help individuals and their families understand the prognosis of their illness and make informed decisions about their care. The palliative care team can provide education and support to help individuals and their families navigate complex medical decisions and can also offer emotional and spiritual support.
In general, it is recommended that individuals with serious or chronic illnesses discuss palliative care with their healthcare provider as early as possible in the illness trajectory. This can help ensure that they receive the appropriate level of support and symptom management throughout the course of their illness and can help improve their overall quality of life. Learn more or find out how we can assist you with palliative care at home today.