I have read about palliative care and preparing for end of life. Where can I find palliative care?

The first thing to keep in mind is that the need for palliative care isn’t necessarily associated with the end of life. Palliative care is the control and management of symptoms. It’s intended to make people feel as comfortable as possible with the mesothelioma symptoms they’re experiencing, such as shortness of breath and chest pain.

As far as where and how to receive palliative care, many hospitals and medical facilities now have a pain and palliative care department. Often times, when someone is diagnosed with mesothelioma, the palliative care department is part of the patient’s medical team along with the medical oncologist, the surgeon, and whoever else comprises the team. Palliative care providers develop a relationship with patients and learn what does and doesn’t relieve their pain. They’re a great asset to your overall care. Oncologists work closely with the palliative care department and should be able to tell you about the palliative services available at your treatment facility.