Understanding the Difference Between Supportive (Palliative) and Hospice Care with Hospice of the Chesapeake

This spring, we had the honor of welcoming Patti McMillan, Director of Medical Practice Management at Hospice of the Chesapeake to discuss the difference between Supportive Care and Hospice Care. A recording of this presentation can be viewed below:

Often recommended at the time a serious illness is first diagnosed, supportive care, also known as palliative care, helps you manage not just your medical condition but physical, emotional, spiritual and practical matters before, during and after treatment. Unfortunately, often those who could benefit the most from this field of medicine are put off because of confusion between palliative and hospice care. This seminar helps to provide clarity on palliative medicine and can help you determine if it is right for you.

Patti shares that Hospice of the Chesapeake (HOC) is a valuable resource for both palliative care and hospice care. Supportive (palliative) care with Chesapeake Supportive Care affirms life amidst conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer, or anything that puts a barrier or limitation on one’s life but you still have hope for the future. Hospice care is focused on the dignity of dying for patients with a life expectancy of 6 months or less if the illness runs its usual course. All medical providers at HOC are board certified, and they work in conjunction with your primary care physician.

Symptom management from Chesapeake Supportive Care aims to help provide relief from pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and other side effects that can accompany cancer. The providers at Chesapeake Supportive Care can help you continue to live your life and do the things you like to do. This supportive care can be executed in hospitals, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, outpatient at the Hussman Supportive Care Center in Pasadena, and in your own home – if you are homebound, they come to your home.

Chesapeake Supportive Care providers can also assist with advanced care planning including explaining the MOLST (Medical Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment) form, which is helpful for you and your loved ones to have in case of emergency.

For a full list of helpful resources, click here to visit their website.