There are lot of misconceptions about palliative care and hospice care. We have tried to address some in this FAQ section. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information or clarification.

There is so much that so many want to know about Shanthallaya, Hospice for the care of the advanced and terminally ill Cancer patients. Often there is confusion in the minds of the inquirer, mainly because of incorrect or distorted information.

The purpose of this website is to answer all the possible questions that you may like to ask about Shanthallaya. In case you need any more information, please do not hesitate to contact us, and we will be happy to respond.

What is the difference between palliative care and hospice care?

The goals of palliative care and hospice care are the same: to relieve pain and suffering and to improve the quality of life. However, the patients who receive the care are different.

Palliative care

Helps cancer patients and their families at any time during the illness, starting when cancer is diagnosed. It can be given along with cancer treatment, and it can continue after cancer treatment is completed. Palliative care usually is provided in the hospital, the doctor's office, a clinic, or the patient's home. Some patients receive palliative care for years.

Hospice care

This is a type of palliative care that is focused on the end of life. It is for patients whose cancer cannot be treated. For a patient to be eligible for hospice services, the doctor must certify that the patient is expected to live six months or less.

Hospice care can be given at the patient's home, in the hospital, in assisted-care living, or in a nursing home. Some hospice organizations have facilities where patients can stay for a short time for treatment of uncontrolled symptoms or to provide a break for the relatives or friends who have been caring for the patient.

How can palliative care help near the end of a patient's life?

Every person is different, and every person has different needs and feelings as his or her last days approach. Palliative care can help the patient and the family:

Prepare for the details of death

The patient and family may want to discuss certain details, such as a will and funeral arrangements, so the patient can make choices about important decisions. The conversations may be difficult, and the palliative care team can help by providing information and resources. The team can also provide forms for advance directives, which state the patient's wishes about life support and other end-of-life decisions.

Deal with feelings about death, whether they are anger, sadness, fear, or other emotions. If necessary, a social worker or therapist can help family members discuss their feelings.

Find ways to feel better spiritually and emotionally. This may include talking, consulting a minister or other religious adviser, looking at photographs, listening to music, or writing in a journal.

Decide if end-of-life care can be provided in the home or if the patient should be moved to a special facility. If the patient is to remain at home, the team can help the caregiver decide whether to begin hospice care. They also can recommend resources.

Keep the patient comfortable by treating pain, fatigue, breathing difficulties, and other problems.