UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is part of the UPMC family.

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Palliative and Supportive Care for Cancer Patients and Families

The UPMC Palliative and Supportive Institute extends the array of services we offer at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

The program's health care team provides complete and coordinated care to people with life-limiting illnesses and to their families.

Palliative Care Services for Cancer Patients

The palliative care team works with your cancer care team to provide:

  • Symptom management
  • Family support
  • Psychosocial care
  • Spiritual care

They also assist with discharge planning and integrate inpatient services with outpatient and home-based programs.

Inpatient Consultations for People with Cancer

The palliative care team provides consult services to cancer patients — and their loved ones — while in the hospital about:

  • Prognosis
  • Care goals
  • Options and education on psychosocial, spiritual, and financial concerns

The team shares these consults with the patient's:

  • Referring doctor
  • Nurses
  • Other health care providers

Cancer Support Programs

The palliative care team also works with many programs to support cancer patients after they leave the hospital.

These support programs include:

  • Home care
  • Hospice
  • Nursing homes

And, they provide support and comfort to family members who are caring for the patient and during their bereavement.

Outpatient Care and Support for People with Cancer

In addition to inpatient consults, the UPMC Palliative and Supportive Institute cares for those who are not yet in the hospital for their illness.

The team's goal is to maintain the highest quality of life for the longest possible time by designing a treatment plan that may include:

  • Dealing with symptoms such as pain, nausea, and anxiety.
  • Planning for home care and hospice.
  • Coping with psychological and spiritual concerns.

Patients may also want to seek care from the Outpatient Pain Management Program at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

To learn more about palliative care or any other services at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, contact us: