When it begins:

Palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious illness, including at the time of diagnosis. It does not depend on prognosis and can be given while patients are also receiving treatments intended to cure or control the illness.

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Goal of care:

To improve quality of life by relieving symptoms, reducing stress, and supporting the emotional and spiritual needs of patients and families.

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Who it is for:

People living with serious illnesses such as cancer, heart failure, chronic lung disease, kidney disease, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or others.

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Where care is provided:

In hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing facilities, or in the home.

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Insurance coverage:

Often covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans.

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Support offered:

Relief from pain and other distressing symptoms, help with understanding treatment options, emotional and psychological support, and guidance with decision-making and care planning.

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At Supportive Medicine Specialists, we provide palliative care to help patients live as fully and comfortably as possible, while ensuring that care aligns with their values and goals.

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​When it begins:

Hospice becomes appropriate when the focus of care turns toward ensuring comfort and supporting meaningful time with loved ones, rather than continuing treatments aimed at curing the illness.

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Goal of care:
To focus on comfort, quality of life, and personal well-being during a time when support matters most. Hospice helps individuals live as fully as possible, while also supporting families through every step of the journey.

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Who it is for:
People living with advanced illness who prefer care that supports peace, dignity, and comfort over ongoing medical treatments.

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Where care is provided:
Hospice services can be provided wherever a person feels most at home, whether in a private residence, nursing facility, or hospice center.

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Insurance coverage:
Hospice care is fully covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans, so families can focus on being present with their loved ones without added financial worry.

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Support offered:
A compassionate care team provides expert symptom management, emotional and spiritual support, caregiver education, and guidance. Families also receive grief support and resources after the loss of a loved one.

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