Supportive care

Supportive care is also known as palliative care. It helps people of any age with a serious or long-term health problem. You can get supportive care anytime and for as long as it’s needed. It works alongside the care you get from your other doctors.

Goals include:

• Helping you and loved ones learn about your illness and what to expect
• Lowering your pain and improving your comfort and well-being
• Offering support and advice that can help you make decisions 
• Supporting your family and caregivers 
• Updating your care plan as your health and goals change 

Supportive care helps adults and children living with serious health concerns, such as: 

• Cancer 
• Heart problems 
• Kidney failure 
• Lung problems 
   

Supportive care can help ease a variety of symptoms, including: 

• Breathing problems 
• Loss of appetite 
• Pain 
• Sadness 
• Sleeping problems  
• Weakness  
• Worry

No. Supportive care is not the same as hospice care. Hospice is end-of-life care. It’s offered when a patient has six months or less to live.  

Your doctor will usually suggest supportive care if it’s needed. They’ll also connect you to supportive care programs. If you’re interested in supportive care, talk with your doctor.  

Most health plans cover supportive care. So do Medicare and Medicaid. To find out what your plan covers, call the number listed on the back of your member ID card.  

Your care will be offered by a team of experts. They work with you, your family and your other doctors. Depending on what you want and need and on your location, your team may include:  

• Dietitians (food and healthy eating experts) 
• Doctors  
• Nurses  
• Physical or occupational therapists 
• Social workers 
• Specialists 
• Spiritual advisors