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Northwestern Memorial Palliative Care Program

Northwestern Memorial Hospital Palliative Care Program provides care to patients and family members when pain and other symptoms impair their quality of life. Our team of physicians, nurses, social workers, pastoral counselors, bereavement counselors, volunteers and other healthcare professionals focuses on relieving pain and other distressing symptoms of patients with acute or chronic illnesses. We are experienced in managing many of the symptoms that accompany serious illnesses including:

• Cancer
• AIDS
• Heart disease
• Neurological disorders
• Lung disorders

Three linked programs are available to meet the full range of healthcare needs:

• Symptom Management Consultation
  Physicians, nurses and social workers consult with patients and their caregivers in the hospital about issues of symptom management and advanced planning. Consultations focus on helping patients and family members understand their care and treatment options so informed decisions can be made.


• Palliative Care Inpatient Unit
  The palliative care inpatient unit is staffed by physicians, nurses, social workers and other healthcare specialists devoted to relieving symptoms associated with life-limiting illness and helping patients and family members plan their future.


• Symptoms Management Clinic
  The Palliative Care Clinic offers outpatient assessment, consultation and treatment for patients and families with symptom management or advanced planning issues. The clinic is staffed by physicians, nurses, pain specialists, social workers, chaplains and volunteers who are experienced in alleviating physical pain as well as assisting with emotional and spiritual matters as well as future planning.

Treatment Team
The palliative care team provides expertise in pain and symptom management. Team members form partnerships with patients, their primary care provider and family members to coordinate care and to ensure that all healthcare options are understood and dignity is maintained. Team members include:

• Patient's primary care provider and/or attending physician
• Palliative care doctors
• Registered nurses
• Nurse practitioners
• Social workers
• Pastoral counselors
• Patient care technicians and certified nurse aids
• Volunteers
• Massage therapists
• Expressive art therapists
• Recreational therapists

Cost and Payment
Palliative care cost is usually covered by Medicare, Medicaid and many private insurance carriers. Our staff will contact your insurance company to confirm coverage and will discuss other payment options with you, if necessary.

Contact
To learn more about the Palliative Care Program or to schedule an initial appointment, call (312) 926-4600. A referral from your physician is the only requirement.

Palliative Care locations
Inpatient Palliative Care Unit
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Feinberg Pavilion - 16th Floor
251 East Huron St.
Chicago, IL 60611

Outpatient Palliative Care Clinic
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Galter Pavilion - 21st Floor
675 North St. Clair St.
Chicago, IL 60611