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Palliative Care in Cancer

What is palliative care?


Who gives palliative care?


Often, palliative care specialists work as part of a multidisciplinary team that may include doctors, nurses, registered dieticians, pharmacists, chaplains, psychologists, and social workers. The palliative care team works in conjunction with your oncology care team to manage your care and maintain the best possible quality of life for you.


What issues are addressed in palliative care?


  • Caregiver needs. Family members are an important part of cancer care. Like the patient, they have changing needs. It’s common for family members to become overwhelmed by the extra responsibilities placed upon them. Many find it hard to care for a sick relative while trying to handle other obligations, such as work, household duties, and caring for other family members. Uncertainty about how to help their loved one with medical situations, inadequate social support, and emotions such as worry and fear can also add to caregiver stress.

  • Practical needs. Palliative care specialists can also assist with financial and legal worries, insurance questions, and employment concerns. Discussing the goals of care is also an important component of palliative care. This includes talking about advance directives and facilitating communication among family member, caregivers, and members of the oncology care team.

When is palliative care used in cancer care?

Palliative care may be provided at any point along the cancer care continuum, from diagnosis to the end of life. When a person receives palliative care, he or she may continue to receive cancer treatment.

How does a person access palliative care?

Your oncologist (or someone on your oncology care team) is the first person you should ask about palliative care. He or she may refer you to a palliative care specialist, depending on your physical and emotional needs. Some national organizations have databases for referrals. For example, the Center to Advance Palliative Care has a list of providers by state. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s website also has a list of providers.

What is the difference between palliative care and hospice?

Whereas palliative can begin at any point along the cancer care continuum, hospice care begins when curative treatment is no longer the goal of care and the sole focus is quality of life.


  • providing support for family members

Who pays for palliative care?


Is there any research that shows palliative care is beneficial?


Does NCI support palliative care research?

