Los Angeles Palliative Care: Role of Palliative Care in Oncology

Palliative care can be provided to cancer patients at any stage of the illness. It depends on the patient’s preference when they would like to start palliative care and what their goals for treatment are. They can begin palliative care at the time of their diagnosis or the end-of-life stage. Since palliative care can be offered to a patient while they receive cancer treatment, it allows the patient to better assess their options, look at other therapy methods, and receive help with symptom and pain management.

Role of Oncology in Palliative Care

Expectations and Illness Understanding

Palliative care can help cancer patients understand their options and clear their doubts accordingly. It can ensure that patients and their families can manage the stresses of the diagnosis and manage symptoms accordingly.

Support According to the Diagnosis

Regardless of whether the patient opts for palliative care in the first or last stage of cancer, professionals can help draft goals for the hospice patient according to their needs and ensure they remain comfortable and informed at every stage of the treatment.

Treatment Options According to Cancer Diagnosis

Some cancer treatments can reduce symptoms, while some can get rid of them. With treatment, patients can choose to shrink the tumour size and reduce the pressure on surrounding tissues and nerves. Cancer treatments that patients commonly select include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, radiofrequency ablation, hormone therapy, etc. Palliative care professionals can help patients choose the right treatment option for them and make decisions according to their goals.