Laclede County Record logo and header

Palliative Care: A Personalized Pathway to Comfort and Support

Posted
Play Video

(BPT) - Palliative care from Carelon Health offers a deeply personalized and compassionate approach to managing the complexities of serious illnesses. It focuses on providing relief from symptoms, stress, and the emotional challenges patients and families often face. This care extends beyond traditional medical treatment, ensuring patients receive tailored, wrap-around support aligned with their goals and preferences. Whether addressing physical discomfort, mental health concerns, or coordinating care between providers, palliative care seeks to enhance quality of life at every stage of illness.

Patients like Erin, who was diagnosed with both aplastic anemia and ovarian cancer, highlight the transformative impact of palliative care. Initially unfamiliar with the concept, Erin found reassurance in the comprehensive and empathetic care provided by her nurse practitioner, Jenni. Through home visits, Jenni built a trusting relationship with Erin, offering emotional support and aligning care with her values. This holistic approach included coordination with social workers to address anxiety and mental health concerns, as well as keeping all medical providers informed to ensure cohesive care.

Palliative care also benefits caregivers, as Erin's husband, Dale, discovered. Recognizing that the support extended to him as part of the care team was empowering and inclusive. Carelon Health further enhances accessibility through its 24-hour urgent care line, providing timely symptom management and helping patients avoid hospital visits. For patients and families facing the uncertainties of serious illness, palliative care offers a vital lifeline, underscoring the importance of personalized, relationship-centered care.

Learn more about palliative care from Carelon Health here.