palliative care

American  

noun

1. medical care focused on improving the quality of life of patients with serious illnesses, as by treating symptoms and providing emotional support.

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Etymology

Origin of palliative care

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Palliative care services in the UK are "the best in the world", he said, but services "can still improve more".

From BBC • Jan. 31, 2025

Palliative care doctors, skilled in discussions of serious illness, are scarce in some parts of the country, however, and in outpatient practices.

From New York Times • Mar. 14, 2023

Palliative care physicians specialize in easing suffering—their job is to support patients and their families as they manage serious illnesses.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2020

Palliative care is additive—an extra layer of support—and it can serve an essential function in the experiences of patients and their families.

From The New Yorker • Mar. 18, 2019

Palliative care has value for patients and oncologists, yet the nexus between oncology and palliative care remains weak in many places due to a lack of education, collaboration and resources.

From The Guardian • Sep. 12, 2017