Palliative Medicine focuses on patient's comfort and maximizing his or her quality of life. Dr. Steve Baumrucker with Kingsport Palliative Care Associates is a board certified physician in Hospice and Palliative Care has joined our office to expand this service. Pain management is a key aspect of Palliative Care, but it also includes controlling other physical problems and addressing a patient's emotional and spiritual needs. A Palliative Medicine Plan will involve the patient, his or her physician and the physician who specializes in developing palliative care plans.

Palliative care can occur in conjunction with curative treatment efforts or alone, depending on the patient's wishes and disease progression. As the patient's status changes, the plan can be tailored to continue meeting his or her needs.

Each plan is specific to the patient. Some patients may want to incorporate non-medical alternatives for pain control. If depression or anxiety is present in the patient, medication or counseling may be prescribed to limit detrimental effects of these mental health disorders.

Palliative Care is a positive solution aimed at maximizing patient's quality of life. Patient comfort and satisfaction are the driving factors in a Palliative Care plan. For more information regarding our palliative care service please call 423-224-3197.

Steven J. Baumrucker,MD