Dallas County Living Well Magazine July/August 2021 | Page 23

OLIVIA ROGERS Olivia is a leading voice in health care and senior services and the Chief Nursing Officer of VNA Texas .
Dear Olivia , A family member has recently had some health issues that have worsened ; he sees a lot of specialists and is still receiving treatment for his condition . My doctor has recommended palliative care as part of his medical team , but I am not sure what this means . Can you help me understand ?
-Trying to Understand Palliative Care
Dear Trying to Understand Palliative Care , Palliative care is a confusing concept for many but simply stated , palliative medicine is aimed at symptom management and quality of life for those with serious or complex medical conditions . Your doctor may refer you to a palliative clinic or supportive palliative care program if he or she feels that you may benefit from a specialist in such symptom management and coordination of care . Often times , complex conditions require the input of not one , but a team of physicians , and to help you navigate this sometimes confusing and stressful journey , a palliative program can offer the expertise of a physician certified in hospice and palliative medicine , medical social worker , RN case manager , Nurse Practitioner , spiritual counselor and more . It is an interdisciplinary team approach to your individualized healthcare needs . Visiting Nurse Association ’ s supportive palliative program is here to help as you navigate this season in life .
~ Olivia
VNA Hospice Care
VNA Hospice Care focuses on living life to its fullest and treating you with the dignity and respect you deserve . As a nonprofit , our bottom line is patient support and care provided by our highly qualified staff .
VNA Care Choices
Following the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness , patients and their loved ones have many questions about the best course of action . VNA Care Choices provides supportive care services in the home while continuing treatment with your current physician .
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