Palliative Care at Southwest Cancer Care

At Southwest Cancer Care, we are proud to be the only provider of outpatient palliative care in the region, offering a level of support that is typically available only at renowned cancer centers. Unlike hospital-based palliative care programs that primarily serve patients confined to hospital beds, our services are fully integrated into outpatient treatment, ensuring patients receive expert symptom management while continuing their daily activities. This approach allows individuals to maintain their independence, comfort, and quality of life without unnecessary hospitalizations.

Our palliative care team provides comprehensive support for individuals facing serious or chronic illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, lung disease, neurological disorders, and other complex conditions. We specialize in relieving pain, reducing treatment-related side effects, and managing symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath, and loss of appetite. By addressing these concerns, we help patients regain strength, improve their overall well-being, and continue to engage in the activities that matter most to them.

At Southwest Cancer Care, we believe that palliative care should be an integral part of a patient’s overall treatment plan. Our experienced specialists work closely with oncologists, primary care physicians, and other healthcare providers to develop personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether patients are undergoing active treatment, recovering from a medical procedure, or managing a long-term illness, our goal is to provide expert guidance, symptom relief, and compassionate care at every stage of their journey.

As the only outpatient palliative care provider in Cochise County, we are committed to bringing high-quality, patient-centered care to our community. We ensure that individuals have access to the same advanced palliative care services found at leading cancer centers, giving them the best possible support right here at home. By prioritizing comfort, symptom control, and overall wellness, we empower patients to live as fully and comfortably as possible while receiving the medical care they need.

Our Services

Cancer-Related Pain Management

We specialize in managing complex pain associated with cancer and cancer treatments. Our team utilizes a variety of approaches, including medication management, interventional therapies, and complementary techniques, to provide effective pain relief and improve comfort.

Symptom Control and Management

We address a wide range of distressing symptoms, such as nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Our goal is to minimize these symptoms and help you maintain the best possible quality of life while managing your serious illness.

Goals of Care Discussions

Our team facilitates open and honest conversations about your values, goals, and preferences for medical care. We help you clarify your priorities and make informed decisions about treatment options that align with your wishes.

Advanced Care Planning

We provide guidance and assistance in completing advance directives, such as Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) forms and Healthcare Power of Attorney documents. This ensures your wishes are honored if you are unable to make decisions for yourself.

Palliative Care at Southwest Cancer Care

Palliative care is not limited to cancer patients. Individuals with the following conditions may also benefit from our services

  • Advanced Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Advanced Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
  • Advanced Liver Disease (e.g., cirrhosis)
  • Advanced Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
  • Advanced Kidney Disease

Frequently asked questions

No, palliative care is not the same as hospice care. Palliative care is appropriate at any stage of a serious illness, alongside curative treatments. Hospice care, on the other hand, is typically provided at the end of life when curative treatments are no longer effective.

Palliative care has been shown to improve quality of life by relieving pain and other distressing symptoms, reducing stress and anxiety, and providing emotional and spiritual support. Studies have also shown that early integration of palliative care can increase life expectancy in some patients.

Yes, palliative care complements your ongoing medical treatments. Our team works collaboratively with your primary care physician and other specialists to ensure that you receive comprehensive and coordinated care.