Palliative Care

A palliative care clinician will talk with you, review your history, and do an exam. Together, you’ll explore symptoms you’re experiencing, such as pain, nausea, fatigue, breathing changes, or appetite shifts, and discuss ways to manage them. They may suggest medications or supportive strategies and will continue to follow your progress to help you stay as comfortable and informed as possible.

You can stay connected with a palliative care specialist for as long as it feels helpful. There’s no limit to the number of visits and no set end point. This support can remain with you throughout your experience with MBC, adjusting as your needs and priorities change.

Palliative care can help you feel more grounded and informed as you navigate decisions and manage symptoms. Research shows that people receiving this type of care often experience: 

• A greater sense of well-being
• Better experiences for both themselves and their caregivers
• Reduced anxiety and depression
• Improved survival

Many people hesitate because they believe palliative care is only for the end of life. In reality, it’s designed for anyone living with a serious or chronic illness that affects daily life. Choosing palliative care does not mean stopping treatment, it means adding extra support to help you feel as well as possible.

Your provider will ask about a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. These conversations help them understand your daily experience and tailor support to your needs. They can also help you navigate the healthcare system and assist in finding resources. 

Yes. Living with a serious illness can bring sadness, fear, or uncertainty for both you and those close to you. Palliative care offers space to talk through these feelings, explore what matters most to you, and strengthen communication within your family. For some people, counseling or medication may also help. Your team can support you emotionally, spiritually, and relationally as you navigate this time

Yes. Your provider can review medications, procedures, and supportive therapies that may ease symptoms and improve your comfort. Pain, nausea, fatigue, breathing difficulties, anxiety, and trouble sleeping can all affect your daily life, and the palliative care team can recommend approaches that specifically address these and other symptoms common during cancer treatment. If you’re dealing with cancer-related pain, they can also help manage prescriptions for controlled substances and support you if substance use disorder is a concern.

Yes. Your team can help you clarify your priorities, understand your options, and consider what kind of care feels right for you—both now and as things change over time. Many people with MBC eventually face difficult treatment decisions. For example: Does the possible benefit of a treatment outweigh its burdens? What risks or side effects come with each option? Your palliative care team can help you and your family think through these questions together and support conversations about what matters most to you.

Absolutely. Many people want care that keeps them as comfortable and independent as possible at home. Your palliative care team can connect you with community services that align with your goals—such as home-based support, symptom management resources, or programs offering emotional and psychological care. They’ll help you identify what’s available, coordinate the pieces, and make sure the plan works for your needs.

Yes. Palliative care providers typically use the same medical record system as your oncology team, ensuring everyone is aligned on your care plan and your needs.

Most health insurance plans cover palliative care. If you’re unsure about your specific coverage, your care team can help you look into benefits and understand any potential costs for visits or medications.