Supportive Care Improves Quality of Life
We all deserve to live as comfortably as possible; however, when an accident, sudden illness or chronic condition takes hold of our lives, comfort may seem impossible or out of reach. In the past decade, hope for relief from acute pain and distressing symptoms has become a reality and within reach, thanks to a growing awareness in palliative or supportive care.
Supportive Care is specialized medical care for people with serious conditions. Its focus is to provide relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress that entails—whatever the cause or diagnosis. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.
This type of care is provided by a team of doctors, nurses, and other specialists, who collaborate with a patient’s primary doctor and/or specialist to provide an extra layer of support. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness and can be offered along with curative treatment.
As a holistic approach to care, it is about a person’s whole being, including family and loved ones. It is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurances. Those with advancing illness can deal with their situation without the added burden of debilitating pain or life-altering symptoms that prevent them from enjoying daily life.
The steady growth in this type of care is primarily in response to the increasing number of people with serious and chronic illness. People are living longer, but not necessarily better. The needs are many, placing overwhelming caregiving demands on families. We recognize these needs and are addressing their challenges through a strong partnership between patient, family and the Carewell Supportive Care team. A consult is available through one’s own physician or by calling (352) 291-5881 for information about receiving services. They can request treatment if the outcome from surgery, accident or disease has left them in physical or mental distress.
Because patients are carefully regulated by their physicians in collaboration with experts on the Carewell Supportive Care team, they can rest assured that symptoms can be managed (most within 24-48 hours) and their condition monitored on an ongoing basis. Many go on to fully regain their lives.
The Carewell Supportive Care team has two medical directors and six APRNs. They conduct consults in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and even private homes. Learn how Carewell Supportive Care can help: (352) 291-5881 or visit www.carewellsuportivecare.com.