Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital promotes Supportive Medicine; a medical discipline focused on reducing gaps in patient care and support. Are you familiar with Supportive Medicine, and have you ever been involved with it?

"Being a caregiver for an ill family member can be a very taxing responsibility, especially when that loved one is in pain. I have seen that when we can provide management of symptoms, it helps reduce anxiety for both the patient and their caregiver. This also helps them to be more at ease with knowing when to seek emergency care. While some lay-persons may not realize it, palliative care saves money for society as a whole because fewer emergent issues are cared for by symptom management rather than unnecessary ER visits. I commend Memorial Health for being proactive in any Palliative Care initiative."

"At first, I was a little confused about palliative care. I thought a patient had to have hospice care to receive palliative care. I understand now that palliative care can stand alone or be a part of a hospice care plan in that it offers management of symptoms whether the patient is actively seeking a cure. I think managing symptoms, especially pain and anxiety, make it easier for the patient and the caregiver. I say this because if someone is anxious or in pain, their decision-making and rationale are not always as clear. Anything we can do to help alleviate some of the stress related to illness is a good thing, in my opinion."

If you are familiar with Supportive Medicine, explain how you have been involved and your opinion of the treatment. If you are unfamiliar with Palliative Care, do some research before your interview and describe the benefits you see with Supportive Medicine.

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