What is the goal in palliative care?

This approach to medicine allows patients the freedom to contemplate and assess their emotional and spiritual needs as they near the end of life.

The main goal of palliative care is to help with symptom management, but it goes beyond just physical pain. With proper treatment, patients are better able to focus on other aspects of their wellbeing, including emotional and spiritual needs.

“You’re a person to love, and I want to get to know you as a person. Palliative medicine can help humanize you through your illness.”

Palliative care allows the patient a deeper integration of their person: the recognition that they are still a human being worthy of the upmost respect and love, even amid great suffering. Through palliative care, patients can more easily be present for important relationships, finalize legal matters, and appreciate the company of loved ones.