Palliative and Hospice Care

When you or a loved one is facing a serious illness, it can be difficult to decide which type of care is the right fit. Palliative care and hospice care are popular options that help relieve pain and other symptoms. Despite playing a similar role in care, the two differ.

Palliative care is appropriate for those who are nearing their end of life and are no longer seeking curative treatment. On the other hand, patients in palliative care can continue to seek medical interventions to cure their illness. Palliative care can be pursued during any stage of illness from diagnosis to treatment.

Palliative care focuses on:

• Symptom management and pain relief
• Improving quality of life during treatment
• Supporting patients pursuing curative treatments
• Available at any stage of serious illness
• Provided alongside other medical care

Hospice is more appropriate for those who are nearing their end of life and are no longer seeking curative treatment. Unlike palliative care, hospice patients have typically moved beyond seeking medical interventions to cure their illness and instead focus on comfort and quality of life during their final days.

Hospice care focuses on:

• Comfort and dignity during end-of-life
• Pain and symptom management without curative treatment
• Emotional and spiritual support for patients and families
• Bereavement support for loved ones
• Making the final journey as peaceful as possible

Our team can help guide you through this decision and determine which type of care is most appropriate for your situation.

The goal of palliative and hospice care at Gurwin is to offer support and resources to improve the quality of life. Residents receive the best-in-class care from in a comfortable environment.

The Palliative Care Center at the Gurwin in Commack relieves suffering through management of symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea, anxiety, sleeplessness and many others. At

We strive to make the end-of-life journey as comfortable and peaceful as possible, focusing on their unique needs and choices with respect and dignity.

Hospice Care on Long Island is provided through a contract with providers that are licensed by the New York State Department of Health. These providers work in partnership with Gurwin to deliver all services needed to help a terminally ill patient and their family members. Our integrated approach ensures seamless coordination between medical care, nursing support, and comfort services.

The Gurwin team offers a variety of services, programming and activities to make each person’s care unique and comforting.

• Board-certified physicians and nurse practitioners
• Registered nurses
• 24-hour nursing supervision and monitoring
• Pain management and symptom control
• Medication administration and management
• Coordination with attending physicians and specialists

• Chaplaincy services and spiritual counseling
• Support for patients and families of all faith backgrounds
• Assistance with end-of-life spiritual concerns
• Connection to religious communities and resources
• Comfort and presence during difficult times

• Music and art therapy
• Gentle exercise and relaxation techniques
• Social interaction opportunities
• Activities designed for comfort and enjoyment

• Social work services and psychological services
• Care coordination and case management
• Family education
• Caregiver support and guidance
• Connection to community resources
• Bereavement support for families

• Pain medications for complex pain management
• Wound care and symptom management
• Nutritional support and dietary accommodations
• Respiratory care and oxygen therapy
• Physical therapy and occupational therapy for comfort and function
• Specialized equipment and supplies as needed

When palliative or hospice care begins, our team conducts a comprehensive assessment to understand:

• Current symptoms and comfort needs
• Medical history and current treatments
• Patient goals and preferences for care
• Family concerns and support needs
• Spiritual and emotional considerations

Based on this assessment, we develop an individualized care plan that addresses all aspects of comfort and quality of life.

Daily Care

• Regular nursing visits and symptom monitoring
• Medication management for comfort
• Personal care assistance as needed
• Family support and education
• Coordination with medical providers

Communication

• Regular updates on patient status
• Care plan meetings with families
• Transparent discussions about care goals
• Support through difficult decisions

Environment

• Comfortable, peaceful settings
• Private spaces for family time
• Quiet areas for rest and reflection
• Homelike atmosphere focused on comfort
• Flexibility for family visits and involvement

• Education about what to expect during illness progression
• Guidance on how to support your loved one
• Emotional support and counseling services
• Practical assistance with care coordination
• Bereavement support for families facing loss
• Connection to additional community resources

What is the difference between palliative care and hospice care?

Palliative care can be provided at any stage of serious illness and can be pursued alongside curative treatments. Hospice care is specifically for patients nearing end-of-life who are no longer seeking curative treatment and instead focus on comfort and quality of remaining time.

How do I know if my loved one qualifies for hospice care?

Generally, hospice care is appropriate when a physician determines that life expectancy is six months or less if the illness follows its natural course, and the patient chooses to focus on comfort rather than curative treatment. Our team can help assess eligibility and guide you through this decision.

Are palliative and hospice care services covered by insurance?

Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans provide coverage for hospice care when eligibility criteria are met. Palliative care coverage varies by plan and the specific services provided. Our staff can help you understand your coverage options as each case is looked at individually to determine coverage.

Can family members be involved in care?

Absolutely. Family involvement is encouraged and supported. Families can visit regularly, participate in care planning meetings, and be present for their loved ones. Our team provides education and support to help families understand and participate in care.

How is pain managed in palliative and hospice care?

Our medical teams are expert in pain and symptom management, using a combination of medications, therapies, and supportive care to ensure maximum comfort.

How do I get started with palliative or hospice care?

Contact us to discuss your loved one’s needs. Our team will assess the situation, explain available services, and help determine the most appropriate type of care. We guide families through every step of the process with compassion and expertise.

Making decisions about end-of-life care can be emotionally challenging. Our compassionate teams are here to answer your questions, explain your options, and provide the support your family needs during this difficult time. Schedule a consultation to learn more about palliative and hospice care services.