Palliative Care at OMHS
Palliative medicine, often called palliative care, is a medical specialty focused on easing suffering and providing for patient comfort. The goal of palliative care is to relieve the symptoms of serious illness and to help patients resume their regular activities. Learn more at GetPalliativeCare.org.
Another excellent resource is this YouTube video produced by the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.
The OMHS Program
A serious illness can be challenging and complex to manage. Patients often face sensitive choices about treatment options, end-of-life care, nursing home care, and spiritual issues. The OMHS Palliative Medicine program opened in 2008 to help patients navigate these important decisions.
Led by Dr. Neville Sarkari, the program has three primary goals:
- Prevent suffering
- Enhance communication between patients, families and providers
- Develop an effective, coordinated treatment plan for each patient
The expertise, compassion, and sensitivity offered by Dr. Sarkari and his team have become a welcome resource for OMHS palliative care patients and their families. Learn more about palliative care in this Vim & Vigor article with Dr. Sarkari.
How It Works
Dr. Sarkari coordinates a variety of patient services, including:
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Case managers
- Social services
- Dietary
- Pharmacy
- Pastoral care
The staff works with the patient's primary care doctor and other specialists to coordinate a care plan. Chaplains are also available to help meet the emotional and spiritual needs of patients and their families.
Inpatient palliative care services are available by physician referral. The program also offers outpatient, nursing home, and in-home services. Call (270) 688-1283 or send an email to learn more.