Spe­cia­li­sed pal­lia­ti­ve care ser­vices

Palliative care encompasses the care and treatment of people with a progressive or life-threatening illness. The focus is on maintaining the quality of life, dignity and self-determination of those affected, rather than treating the underlying illness. Physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs are given equal consideration.

In complex or unstable illness situations, in-depth expertise is required. This treatment is referred to as specialised palliative care.

The need for acute hospitalisation is a prerequisite for treatment in inpatient specialised palliative care. The services provided are regulated in the KVG (Federal Health Insurance Act). The costs are therefore borne by the health insurers.

Examples of reasons for admission to inpatient specialised palliative care:

• Severe distressing symptoms, such as shortness of breath, anxiety, pain that is difficult to control,
  confusion or persistent vomiting
• Psychological crisis situation
• Rapidly progressive deterioration in condition
• Need to assess the distressing symptoms several times a day and adjust the therapeutic
  measures accordingly

Other reasons for specialised palliative care may be an inadequate care network for the patient or a need for support from relatives.

The treatment of complaints such as pain, shortness of breath, anxiety, nausea or states of confusion is the first priority. Psychosocial, cultural, spiritual and existential needs of the patient are also taken into account. This often encourages the patient in their decision-making process. In addition, relatives are accompanied and supported according to their needs. The aim is to achieve a situation that is acceptable to all involved as quickly as possible.