Bolivia, N.C., May 17, 2016 – Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center is pleased to announce it is now offering palliative care consults for patients through a partnership with Lower Cape Fear Hospice. The palliative care team is available to assess patients, make recommendations, attend family meetings and coordinate care.
Palliative care is specialized care for patients with serious, advanced or chronic illnesses that is offered alongside treatment. It is focused on relieving symptoms and defining goals to provide a better quality of life for patients and their families.
“Palliative care is for any illness at any stage,” said Melanie Kelly, director of palliative care for Novant Health. “Most people think palliative care is just for end of life, but it can be given across a continuum. It doesn’t have to be end-stage or end of life. We’re there to be an extra layer of support for patients who are going through a complex illness.”
Services include:
- Expert treatment of symptoms such as pain, nausea, fatigue and anxiety.
- Emotional and spiritual support.
- Assistance with decision-making and guidance with treatment choices.
- Assistance with advance directives.
The palliative care team consists of physicians, advanced practice clinicians and other team members as needed. The benefits of palliative care include:
- Quality, comprehensive and patient-centered care.
- Symptom management to prevent a crisis.
- Improved coordination of care among providers and awareness of goals.
- Enhanced communication between patient/family and providers.
- Fewer readmissions to the hospital.
For more information about palliative care services at Brunswick Medical Center, please call 1-800-207-6908.
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