Center to Advance Palliative Care

This is Gretchen, from Janet's computer. Of course I don't remember what I said exactly but the point I usually make is that while all hospice is palliative care, palliative care is much broader as it has no requirement about how long the patient has to live nor more importantly does the patient have to relinquish care aimed at cure. Further, many palliative interventions are more agressive and more costly than many hospices can afford or consider part of the patients plan of care. I think I did make the point it was important to be clear about the distinction as for many programs that start at the initiation of the hospice the staff might be the same person. While this person absolutely needs to be able to explain the difference to referring physicians and other hospital staff as well as to patients and families, there is a positive side if that staff gains the trust of the referers and families that that person can direct the care in either direction based on the needs and wishes of the patient/family and the condition of the patient. Gretchen Brown.