Overview
To cure sometimes, to relieve often, to comfort always – this is our work. Palliative care is a medical specialty service that aims to relieve suffering – physical, psychological, and spiritual – and improve quality of life for patients and families dealing with life-threatening illnesses at any stage of the illness.
At Inova we believe our patients and families need to know more about the benefits of palliative care.
Unlike hospice, which generally is reserved for people in the last months of life, palliative care can be helpful to a patient dealing with chronic or life-threatening medical conditions at any point during their illness. It is offered simultaneously with all other appropriate medical treatments and can benefit patients dealing with nearly any type of condition.
Illnesses supported with palliative care
- Cancer
- Cardiac disease
- Lung disease
- Kidney or liver failure
- AIDS
- Alzheimer's disease or other dementias
- Multiple sclerosis
Learn more about palliative care 
How do I get palliative care for myself or a family member?
Begin by talking to your physician, your Inova caregivers and your family. We can put you in contact with palliative care experts who will provide you with detailed information about what services are available. You will need a physician referral to receive palliative care.
At Inova Fairfax Hospital and Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, you can talk directly with members of the palliative care teams. Contact us.
Have more questions?
We have answers. Read our frequently asked questions to learn more about palliative care and how you or a family member can benefit.
