Physicians have been given a gift. Through their intellect, education, and hard work, they have the power to heal people. For physician Atul Gawande, it was humbling to learn that none of this prepared him or his colleagues for the patients they couldn’t heal.
At their most basic, goals-of-care conversations are a necessary tool in gathering information about our patient’s healthcare wishes. But when they’re done right, they tell us so much more and open up the door to trust and true communication.
Multiple sclerosis, commonly referred to as MS, is a progressive disease of the nervous system. It disrupts the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and other parts of the body. The cause of multiple sclerosis is still unknown and we do not yet have a cure.
As humans, it’s natural to seek adventure and fulfillment. From visiting foreign cities to completing a great feat of strength, most people have hopes and dreams that they wish to achieve in their lifetime. And unfortunately, for many people nearing the end of their lives, it’s common to have a few of these dreams and goals still left unfulfilled. But what if today’s technology could change that?
Diabetes is a common illness that can be effectively managed with diet and medication. As patients age, however, it can be more difficult to control the effects of end-stage diabetes. This is particularly true when another illness is present. Common comorbidities include cardiopulmonary disease, Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, and cancer.
Family caregivers are often reluctant to even discuss hospice care. No one wants to think about losing a loved one, which is why hospice conversations can be considered a taboo. A patient’s terminal condition is determined by meeting specific medical criteria – regardless of whether or not anyone talks about it. Choosing hospice care simply allows the patient to take advantage of a Medicare benefit that provides more care when they need it most.
