Many individuals need someone to help them through the complex medical processes and lifestyle changes that accompany a serious illness. Faced with choices about treatment, medications, responsibilities of home and family, and making final decisions and arrangements, many patients find that Citrus Valley Home Health Agency’s Palliative Care Program makes things much easier.
  
Who Can Benefit From Palliative Care?
The program is headed by a recognized expert in the field and is designed to meet unique needs. Some patients are dealing with one or several chronic illnesses. Some are experiencing a life-threatening disease or injury. And some are facing immediate end-of-life issues. Citrus Valley’s Palliative Care Program offers each person personalized assistance and care.

A Special Kind of Service
From the beginning, Citrus Valley palliative care professionals are advocates for patients. They coordinate care, help patients make the transition to appropriate care settings, monitor ongoing treatments, and assist in communicating patients’ desires to physicians, other caregivers, appropriate outside agencies, and family members and friends. In the midst of a medical system that often seems confusing, they function as the experienced eyes and ears for patients. As a result, patients who receive palliative care report a high level of satisfaction. They understand, believe, and trust that the palliative care professional will never stop fighting on their behalf.

A Team-Approach to Care
Under the direction of the patient’s physician, the palliative care professional can also help coordinate services provided by other members of the home health team. They have access to the Meditech information that links patients to the larger Citrus Valley Medical Center’s services, programs, and specialists. They can assist patients in understanding how different treatments and therapies, including chronic pain management, work together to prolong or improve the quality of life.

Services to Meet Patients’ Needs
While palliative care specialists can provide a wide range of information, services, and assistance, they believe that it is the patient’s choice that matters most. It is their job to do everything possible to make sure that patients receive the type of care and support they desire as they meet the challenges of a serious illness.