MultiCare Health System

Palliative Medicine

Palliative medicine is a subspecialty of medicine devoted to holistic care of the patient and their family.  Palliative medicine physicians are experts in addressing a wide variety of physical symptoms, as well as social, emotional, and spiritual concerns of the patient and family.  They work together with the oncologist and primary care physician to relieve suffering and help the patient enjoy the best quality of life possible by helping patients to choose medical care that most supports their needs and goals for their lives.

A palliative physician takes a different role than one who treats a specific disease.  Normally, examining the patient or reviewing the results of specific tests can determine the effectiveness of any treatment.  However, no medical test will reveal if medical care is supporting the values and personal meanings of the lives of the patient and family.  After gaining an understanding of what is important to you and your family, an experienced Palliative Care Physician can offer suggestions based on knowledge of your values and how you want to live your life.  With this collaboration, you and your family might be better able to decide on the kind of care you really want.

When is palliative care appropriate?
Palliative consultations are available anytime during the patient’s illness.  Early in treatment, they can suggest therapies that support a patient’s healing and coping.  In advanced illness or a patient reaching an end of life stage, they can discuss treatments to relieve suffering and guide important decisions involving advance directives or allow a natural death declaration.

What will happen during a palliative medicine consultation?
Serious illness can be difficult to talk about.  A Palliative Medicine Consultation allows a physician to help you and your family discuss what’s most important for you at this stage of your illness.  The Palliative Medicine Physician will first obtain your medical history by talking with your doctor and reviewing your medical chart.  Then he will meet with you and whoever you choose to be there to support you.  This may include family, close friends, or clergy.

Together you may discuss:

  • your understanding of your current medical condition
  • any physical symptoms that may be causing you suffering
  • your social situation and family needs
  • your emotional and spiritual concerns.

Sometimes a limited physical exam will be done.  It is also common to review your wishes for your health care, in case you are unable to make this decision at any point.

Is this the same as hospice?
No, although they share similar philosophies.  Hospice provides support for patients and families approaching the last stage of life.  Palliative Care Services is appropriate for any stage of a serious or advanced disease or for patients wanting to complete an Advanced Directive or Health Care Durable Power of Attorney.

Who are the palliative consultants?
MultiCare Palliative Medicine Consultants are board certified physicians with special interest and training in palliative care.  Most are also full time clinical faculty with the University of Washington School of Medicine in the Department of Family Practice and teach locally at the Tacoma Family Medicine Family Practice Residency Program.

How is the consultation paid for?
Medicare and most other insurance plans cover palliative medicine consultations.  Check directly with your insurance carrier if you have any questions about coverage. The MultiCare Oncology/Hematology Clinic at 253-403-1677 is also available to help answer coverage questions.

How are the consultations arranged and where do they take place?
Inpatient consultations are provided at Allenmore Hospital and Tacoma General Hospital and at the request of the attending physician.  Outpatient consultations are provided at the MultiCare Oncology/ Hematology Clinics and can be arranged by calling the clinic at:
 
Allenmore Hospital ..............253-459-6640
Tacoma General Hospital .....253-403-1677