How to Get Palliative Care

Step 3) Meet with the Palliative Care Team

What should you ask during the meeting?

• What can I expect from palliative care?
• Where will my care be provided (e.g., in the hospital, home, nursing home, hospice)?
• Who will be part of the palliative care team?
• What are your recommendations for my care?
• What decisions need to be made by either my family or me?
• Will you be able to help explain the issues involved in making these decisions?
• Will you communicate openly and candidly with my family and me about my illness?
• Will you continue to be involved in my care when I am in the hospital (if currently at home) or when I am discharged from the hospital (if currently in the hospital)?
• How will you interact and communicate with my other doctors?
• What will you do if I experience severe pain or uncomfortable symptoms?
• What support will you provide to my family and/or caregivers?
• Can you explain the difference between hospice and palliative care?
• Will you still be available to me throughout my illness?
• What resources do you recommend for me to learn more about palliative care?