Glossary > Healthcare > Long-term Care > Hospice Care

Terminal Illness Management

Terminal illness management involves providing comprehensive care and support to individuals who have been diagnosed with conditions that are incurable and are expected to result in death within a certain period. This type of care focuses on ensuring the comfort and quality of life of patients during their final stages of life.

Example #1

A patient with advanced cancer receiving palliative care to manage pain and symptoms

Example #2

An individual with end-stage heart failure being supported by hospice services at home

Misuse

An example of misuse in terminal illness management could be inadequate pain management for terminally ill patients. It is crucial to protect against this as it can lead to unnecessary suffering and a diminished quality of life for individuals nearing the end of their lives.

Benefits

One of the benefits of terminal illness management is that it allows patients to receive personalized care tailored to their needs and preferences. For example, hospice care provides emotional support, pain management, and assistance with daily activities to enhance the quality of life during the terminal phase of an illness.

Conclusion

Terminal illness management plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals facing end-of-life situations receive compassionate and comprehensive care that prioritizes their comfort and dignity. By focusing on the individual's well-being and quality of life, terminal illness management aligns with CAP's mission of promoting fairness, transparency, and consumer empowerment in the healthcare sector.

Last Modified: 4/30/2024