Palliative Care Service
Program Director:
Ira Byock, MD
Palliative care addresses each patient as a whole person, including his or her physical comfort, confidence, emotional well-being, spirituality and dignity. Because family members are also involved in a person’s illness, the palliative care team supports them and helps them feel informed, as well. Since no two people are alike, our palliative care team works closely with patients, their loved ones and their clinicians. Taking into account the patient’s personal values and treatment preferences, together we discuss and create a one-of-a-kind approach that includes what matters most to each individual.
Who benefits from palliative care?
Our palliative care team provides personalized services, resources and support for patients with a wide range of medical challenges, such as:
- People living with cancer, congestive heart failure, Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS), Alzheimer’s Disease, and other life-threatening conditions, as well their loved ones, who have concerns and questions of their own
- Infants and children living with complex medical needs, as well as their parents and siblings
- Frail elders living with the health concerns of aging, as well their spouses and adult children who may assist with their daily care
Patients usually receive palliative care services along with other medical treatments, such as intensive care, cardiac or cancer care, and hospice care. At Norris Cotton Cancer Center and DHMC, palliative care services are available to patients in the hospital as well as to those being treated in clinics. When needed, we work closely with hospice teams in a person’s community to ensure a smooth transition to care in the family’s home or a nearby assisted-living setting.
Click here to read a pamphlet about Palliative Care Services and Resources available through Norris Cotton Cancer Center (PDF)
Click here for information about Living Well with Serious Illness (PDF)
