What is the difference between Hospice and Palliative Care?

Medicine is about what we do for a person. Hospice is about what we do with a person

- Atul Gawande

Making the decision to enter hospice care, whether for oneself or a loved one, can be an emotionally and mentally challenging process. It involves grappling with the reality of a terminal illness and acknowledging the limitations of medical treatments.

The decision often brings feelings of grief, fear, and uncertainty, as it represents a significant shift in focus from curative or aggressive measures to prioritizing comfort and quality of life. Family members may find themselves torn between wanting to provide the best care possible and accepting that hospice might be the most compassionate choice.

Additionally, navigating the complex healthcare system and understanding the available options can be overwhelming. However, amidst all of these difficulties, we are often first faced with should I choose Palliative or Hospice care? What is the difference between Hospice and Palliative care?

The Difference Between Hospice and Palliative Care

Both hospice and palliative care aim to improve the quality of life and provide comfort to patients, but they are distinct in the following ways:

Hospice Care

Hospice care is specifically designed for individuals who are in the last stages of a terminal illness and have a life expectancy of six months or less.
The primary focus of hospice care is on providing comfort, pain management, and emotional support to enhance the patient's quality of life during their final months.
Hospice care is typically provided in the patient's home, but it can also be offered in specialized hospice facilities or nursing homes.
The goal of hospice care is to help patients live their remaining days with dignity and make the most of their time with loved ones.

Palliative Care

Palliative care, on the other hand, is appropriate at any stage of a serious illness, regardless of life expectancy.
The main goal of palliative care is to improve the patient's quality of life by managing pain, alleviating symptoms, and addressing the emotional and spiritual aspects of their condition
Unlike hospice care, palliative care can be provided alongside curative treatments and is not limited to end-of-life care.
Palliative care can be offered in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, or the patient's home.

Choosing Pacific Hospice

When faced with a terminal illness, choosing hospice care can be a life-changing decision for both patients and their families. At Pacific Hospice, we are dedicated to accompanying you on this journey, offering a range of specialized services to ensure comfort, dignity, and peace throughout the process.

Why Choose Pacific Hospice

Comprehensive Care

Our interdisciplinary team of skilled professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, spiritual counselors, and volunteers, work together to provide holistic care, addressing all aspects of our patients' well-being.

Patient-Centered Approach

Each patient is unique, and we tailor our care plans to suit their specific needs and preferences. We are dedicated to making their final journey as comfortable and meaningful as possible.

Support for Families

We recognize that hospice care impacts the entire family. Our team is here to provide emotional support and counseling to help families navigate this challenging time.

Pain and Symptom Management

Our experienced medical staff excels in pain and symptom management, ensuring that our patients are free from discomfort and able to focus on what matters most to them.

In-Home Care

We believe that patients are most at ease in the familiarity of their homes. Our services extend to providing hospice care in the comfort of the patient's residence, surrounded by their loved ones.

24/7 Availability

We understand that emergencies and concerns can arise at any time. Our compassionate team is available around the clock to offer support and assistance whenever needed.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one could benefit from our hospice care services in San Antonio, TX, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions and provide the support you need during this challenging time. Remember, at Pacific Hospice, you are never alone on this journey.

Call us at 210-864-4967 or email us at info@pacifichospicetx.com