As an industry leader and innovator, Paradigm Health’s Palliative Care program is paving the way to be an integral and supportive partner in a patient’s overall plan of care and to collaborate with all members of the medical team to manage and lead caregiving based upon a specific set of symptoms. Some frequently asked questions are:
Q: DOES PALLIATIVE CARE REPLACE MY PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN?
A: No. Palliative care does not replace current medical care, rather, it is a specialty consultative medical practice that addresses symptoms and care management. Paradigm Health nurse practitioners maintain regular contact with a patient’s primary physician to provide collaborative and consistent care.
Q: WHO CAN RECEIVE PALLIATIVE CARE?
A: Anyone who is severely or chronically ill can benefit from palliative care.
Q: WHERE CAN A PATIENT RECEIVE PALLIATIVE CARE?
A: Palliative care services are provided in whatever setting the patient calls home: private home, nursing home, assisted living, etc.
Q: HOW IS PALLIATIVE CARE PAID FOR?
A: Palliative care is billed under Medicare Part B, or through commercial insurance, as a professional service (like a physician’s visit). Some insurance plans may require a co-pay. Your palliative care provider will disclose any required co-pays before providing services.
Q: HOW OFTEN DOES MY NURSE PRACTITIONER VISIT?
A: Frequency of visits is determined by clinical need and medical necessity and varies from patient to patient. Most patients are seen every 30-60 days if stable. Patients have access to our triage line 24/7 for symptom management needs.
Still have questions and not sure if palliative care is the right choice for you or a loved one? Take our palliative and hospice care quiz.
