Palliative care

Palliative care is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. It addresses ways to relieve the symptoms of a serious illness, whatever the diagnosis.

At Edward-Elmhurst Health, physicians, advanced practice nurses and other clinicians work with chaplains and social workers to provide inpatient and outpatient palliative care options in a compassionate, healing environment. Our goal is to improve your comfort and quality of life, while also supporting your loved ones through the process.

When is palliative care helpful?

Palliative care may be considered when patients are diagnosed with a chronic or life-limiting illness and need help managing their symptoms.

When does palliative care begin?

Palliative care begins when your physician recommends this service for you. A discussion with the referring physician and our consultation team will help determine the next steps.

Who provides palliative care?

Palliative teams vary, depending on you and your family’s needs. A typical care team may include:

  • Palliative care physicians
  • Advanced practice and specialized nurses
  • Medical social workers
  • Chaplains

Who pays for palliative care?

Insurance, Medicare and Medicaid usually cover palliative care services.

If I agree to palliative care, does that mean I'm "giving up?"

Absolutely not. The goal of palliative care is to make you comfortable and help you achieve the best possible quality of life. You can have palliative care while you are undergoing treatments that may cure or reverse the effects of your illness. In fact, palliative care can help you cope with aggressive treatments by getting your pain and other symptoms under control to help you fight the disease.

Where can I receive palliative care?

Edward-Elmhurst Health offers inpatient and outpatient palliative services. Outpatient palliative services are also offered through Residential Hospice. Find out which services best fit your needs by calling one of our palliative care nurses today. For Edward Hospital, call 630-646-6870. For Elmhurst Hospital, call 331- 221-0323.

Is there a difference between palliative care and hospice?

Yes. Hospice is a type of care specifically for people who likely have six months or less to live. Palliative care can be received by patients at any time and at any stage of illness, whether it be terminal or not.

View the differences between hospice and palliative care

Plan ahead with an advance directive

There may come a time in your life when you need someone else to make medical decisions for you. The best way to prepare for that day is by planning ahead. Complete your advance directive today.

Call a palliative care nurse today

We’re here to help.

For palliative services at Edward Hospital, call 630-646-6870.

For palliative services at Elmhurst Hospital, call 331-221-0096.

Calls will be returned within 24 hours.