Palliative Care is the comprehensive, interdisciplinary management of patients with active, chronic, debilitating or life-limiting disease or illness.  The focus of care is the highest attainable quality of life with equal attention to emotional and spiritual well-being, combined with effective management of symptoms, clear communication, shared decision-making, continuity and coordination of care, and continuous support of the patient and family.

This excellent care will be provided according to need, either concurrently with life-prolonging treatment or as the main focus of care.  Such care will be provided from the time of diagnosis throughout the process of living and dying, including the support of the families and communities in their bereavement.

• Tools are available for having a courageous conversation about patient advocate, advance directives and other end of life issues. Have you had a "Courageous Conversation?"