There are a lot of misconceptions about Palliative Care. The misconceptions serve as an issue,
as it discourages people who are struggling with serious illnesses from seeking treatment that
could substantially improve their quality of life. Instead of falling prey to myths and
misconceptions, patients and their caregivers, including older adults in San Luis Obispo County
and Northern Santa Barbara County should read on to learn more and decide if this solution is
right for them.
Who Is Eligible?
Many patients assume this form of supportive care is just another word for hospice, so they avoid
seeking help because they do not feel that hospice care is necessary or that they won’t be eligible
for care. Thankfully, this is not the case. Anyone suffering from a serious illness with distressing
symptoms like pain, nausea, insomnia, shortness of breath, fatigue, and others can benefit from
seeking supportive care at any point during the illnesses.
What’s Involved?
Supportive care encompasses a wide variety of services, so the first thing patients should expect
is a comprehensive intake process. During intake, an intake manager will discuss the patient’s
medical history and current illness and learn about their current prognosis, treatment plan, and
home support network. This will allow our care team to get to know the patient and their family
and determine what needs might currently be going unmet.
After the intake, a care team of clinicians ensures that the patient has access to everything they
need to manage symptoms, maintain a high quality of life, coordinate with doctors, and focus on
healing. Available services range from medicine to control symptoms to help with making medical
decisions and coordinating with doctors, and more. Patients can also get help with managing their
emotional or spiritual needs with resources that help them better understand their afflictions.
What Are the Main Benefits?
This form of supportive care provides comprehensive, integrated support to patients and their
families. It puts the patient’s goals and desires first and respects their decisions regarding
treatment and symptom control. That means every care plan looks a little different, but the goals
are always the same: to improve the patient’s quality of life, reduce unnecessary hospital visits,
and provide support for the whole family during a difficult time.
Can Patients Get Services at Home?
The quick answer to this frequently asked question is, yes. As with other forms of home health
care, supportive care providers can work with patients from the comfort of their own houses to
coordinate care, increase their comfort, and alleviate distressing symptoms. Clinicians can also
see patients who live in assisted living facilities and nursing homes.
Get Help Now
Choosing the right care provider can be a difficult decision, but it doesn’t have to be. Wilshire
Home Health’s Palliative Care program leads the pack in serving Central Coast patients. With
over 20 years of experience in healthcare, the organization’s clinical team know what it takes to
help patients manage their symptoms and improve their lives, even in the face of serious
illnesses. Call to learn more today.
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