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Palliative Care vs. Hospice Care

Understanding the Differences Between Palliative Care and Hospice Care

The terms “palliative care” and “hospice care” are often used interchangeably but they are not the same. Hospice is only one type of palliative care that can be provided in the last six months of life. Traditionally, palliative care can be offered anytime during the course of a debilitating disease or serious illness and, ideally, should begin at the time of diagnosis.

Palliative care relieves and treats the symptoms of a chronic or life-limiting illness. Hospice care focuses on caring for, not curing, those with these same illnesses. When pain or symptoms become too difficult to manage at the place the patient calls home, or the caregiver needs respite time, hospice makes short-term inpatient care available. In addition, it can provide things like needed drugs, medical supplies, equipment and bereavement support and counseling to surviving family and friends.

When deciding if you or a loved one need hospice care or palliative care, consider the following:

Palliative Care

Hospice Care

Want to learn more?

Want to learn more? We’re available 24 hours per day, seven days per week at (513) 216-9852 to discuss any questions or concerns regarding hospice care, palliative care, grief support and more.

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