PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Palliative care has been defined by the World Health Organization as an approach to care that improves the lives of people and their families who are facing life-threatening illness. The goal is to relieve physical and mental suffering while other treatments aimed at the illness are being used.
The problem is that many patients look at palliative care as an end-of-life treatment, and they wait too long to take advantage of it. Others are afraid that they will stop getting traditional care.
The situation is worsened by the fact that many doctors and other health care providers do not understand its purpose. If you are fighting a serious illness, talk with your health care providers about palliative care and if it may be helpful for you.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.



