What is the focus of palliative care?

Palliative care is centered on enhancing the quality of life for patients who are facing serious, often life-limiting illnesses. Its primary focus is to provide physical and emotional comfort, ensuring that patients are as comfortable as possible while also attending to their psychological and spiritual needs. This approach not only benefits the patient but extends to their family, offering support and guidance throughout the illness journey.

This holistic care model stands in contrast to curative care, which aims specifically to eliminate or combat the disease itself. Instead, palliative care prioritizes relief from the symptoms and stress associated with the illness, fostering a supportive environment that respects individual patient needs and preferences. Thus, it emphasizes comfort over treatment, aligning all efforts with the patient's goals and values for their remaining time.