Palliative care programs seek to improve quality of life and decrease suffering for patients with serious, life-limiting illness. This may involve:

• Managing pain and other adverse symptoms
• Facilitating clear communication and decision-making
• Providing emotional, psychosocial and spiritual support

Palliative care personnel work closely with members of the medical care team-nurses, pharmacists, doctors, physical therapists-to ensure that patients and their families are as comfortable as possible, and understand all aspects of the care plan.

Scripps Health recognizes the importance of each component of patient support: that medical care is more than physical treatment, and must address the whole person.

Use the drop-down menu above for more information about this service at a specific Scripps location.