It seems most patients facing a serious illness would benefit from palliative care. Yet this type of care is often associated with the point when treatment is deemed unsuccessful. To be clear, palliative care is the medical specialty focused on improving the overall quality of life for patients dealing with a serious illness. The emphasis is on pain and symptom management, coordinating care, and ensuring in-depth communication. Palliative care can be provided at the same time as treatment that is designed to cure patients. It not only addresses the quality of life, but may also contribute to survival. A recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine speaks to this issue regarding lung cancer patients.

Are you receiving palliative care, such as counseling, pain management, or assistance with an exercise program? Some patients receive massage therapy and nutritional guidance along with their treatment. Take a moment to post a comment about what you think would be beneficial to your care.

Read the article – Palliative Care at Diagnosis Improves Lung Cancer Survival