Millions of Americans are in dire need of medical care. Some of these patients require round-the-clock care because of symptoms or conditions that impair their ability to look after themselves and even do the smallest tasks, like standing, walking, and eating.
For patients who face life-threatening or debilitating illnesses, the doctor will recommend receiving palliative care or hospice care. All terminally ill patients are qualified for palliative care but only some for hospice.
In general, palliative care and hospice care offer support and comfort to help alleviate patients’ pain and discomfort, as well as to assist them to live as normally as possible. Both services are given by health-care professionals who are trained to deal with patients’ needs.
Palliative care and hospice care also involve round-the-clock monitoring of patient conditions using medical technology and tools only available in medicating facilities. Plus they have high-quality medical and hospital bed that provides the best level of comfort for their patients
Patients may receive palliative care as early as after diagnosis to treat the disease and, hopefully, lessen unnecessary hospitalization and certain medical services. When the illness ceases to respond to treatment or a terminally ill patient opts out of treatment, the doctor will recommend hospice care.
It’s vital to know the difference between both medical care services to provide patients with the care they need and deserve in their precarious condition. This essential health-care infographic will tell you what you need to know about palliative care and hospice care, including their similarities and differences and a patient’s eligibility for either treatment.
