Palliative care is specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress of serious illnesses such as cancer. The primary goal of palliative care is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and their family. It can be provided at any stage of the illness and alongside curative treatments.

Palliative care is available to patients at any stage of a serious illness, whereas hospice care is typically reserved for patients who are nearing the end of life, usually when curative treatments are no longer pursued. Palliative care can be provided in conjunction with curative treatments, while hospice care focuses exclusively on comfort care without curative intent.

Anyone diagnosed with a serious illness like cancer can benefit from palliative care. It is especially beneficial for patients experiencing significant symptoms, pain, or distress. Palliative care supports patients at any stage of their illness and can significantly improve their quality of life.

No, palliative care is not only for terminally ill patients. It is designed to support patients at any stage of a serious illness, including those undergoing treatment aimed at curing or controlling their disease. Palliative care helps manage symptoms and improve overall well-being, regardless of the prognosis.