What is Palliative Care?
Palliative Care refers to whole-person care for those who have diseases which are no longer responsive to curative treatments. Symptom control is paramount and includes the alleviation of symptoms whether they are physical, psychological, social or spiritual. The goal of palliative care is the achievement of the best possible quality of life through relief of suffering, control of symptoms, and restoration of functional capacity while remaining sensitive to personal, cultural and religious values, beliefs and practices.

What is the Function of a Palliative Care Program
A Palliative Care Program is frequently a program designed to aide and assist persons who do not yet meet the criteria for hospice admission. This type of program is designed to provide support, education and facilitation of community resources to meet the special needs of patients with chronic or serious illness and their loved ones. A Palliative Care Program is able to work with you to obtain assistance or admission to any Hospital, Skilled Nursing Facility, Home Health Agency or other community based organization of the person's choice. RTA Hospice & Palliative Care have an affiliation with Arizona Palliative Care Management, Inc. for referral of such persons.

How It Works
A representative will obtain a comprehensive evaluation of the disease process and the needs of the client and family. Total palliative care usually involves an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals who provide coordinated medical, nursing, social work and spiritual care services.

• Nursing visits are consultative. Direct patient care is not provided. The nurse will review medications, answer questions, and collaborate with the patient's primary physician.
  
• Social Workers will help the patient and family deal with the emotional stress caused by the illness. The Social Worker can also assist in decision making, offer options concerning finances and act as a liaison to community agencies and resources.
  
• Clergy will offer spiritual council, guidance and support regardless of faith. This person can also help "connect" the patient with a specific belief system, local spiritual leader or place of worship.
  
• Volunteers may be available to assist the patient or family for short respite, companionship or simple errands.