Q.	What is the difference between palliative care and hospice?
A.	Palliative care is designed to reduce physical, psychosocial, and spiritual pain and suffering in individuals with advanced illness. Patients may still be pursuing curative therapies while receiving palliative care. Palliative care services may commence at the time of diagnosis and continue throughout the disease process. Hospice is a type of palliative care that is delivered during the last 6 months of life when the patient is no longer receiving curative treatments.
Q.	Who pays for palliative care?
A.	Unlike hospice care, Medicare DOES NOT pay for palliative care. Approximately 33% of the nation's hospitals offer palliative care services. Palliative care services delivered by hospital teams may be reimbursed under their insurance policies as medical and nursing services. Additionally, Medicare will cover ONE palliative care consult with a hospice physician. Always check with your insurance company to determine which palliative care services, if any, are covered by your insurance policy.
Q.	What is an advance directive?
A.	An advance directive or living will allows you to document your wishes regarding medical treatment and name the person you want to make healthcare decisions if you are unable to communicate your own medical decisions. Laws governing advanced directives may vary from state to state. It is important you execute your advance directives in accordance with state law where you reside.