Un-Asked Questions

Trellis Supportive Care Palliative

What is Palliative Care?

Palliative Care is care that focuses on improving the quality of life for anyone facing chronic or serious illness. If someone you love receives a diagnosis, ask for a Palliative Care Partner and benefit immediately from the highest level of guidance, medical assistance, and emotional support. Studies prove that having a Palliative Care Partner not only improves quality of life — it extends it.

What is the difference between Hospice and Palliative/Palliative Care?

Palliative Care may begin at the time of a diagnosis and continues throughout the course of a serious illness. Palliative Care may be as simple as providing resources at the onset of a diagnosis, and as comprehensive as routine visits throughout treatment for cure. Hospice Care is generally provided when compassionate, comfort care, rather than cure, is the goal for the patient and family.

Does Trellis Supportive CareCenter provide services only to persons who have a short time to live?

NO. In fact, while Trellis Supportive CareCenter, North Carolina's original hospice and palliative care provider, continues to provide expert end-of-life care, programs and services have been designed to meet the needs of people dealing with concerns related to the diagnosis of any serious or life-threatening illness, regardless of prognosis or treatment options.

Does Trellis Supportive CareCenter only serve patients who have cancer?

NO. Trellis Supportive CareCenter, North Carolina's original hospice and palliative care provider, also provides care for patients with Alzheimer's, Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), AIDS, chronic lung disease, congestive heart failure, and many other illnesses.

Does Trellis Supportive CareCenter serve only adults?

NO. The programs and services of the Trellis Supportive CareCenter, North Carolina's original hospice and palliative care provider, are designed to meet the needs of anyone dealing with a serious illness. Children and their families are offered a specialized pediatric program, created to meet their unique needs and challenges.

Should I wait for my physician to discuss Home Health Care, Supportive Care, or Hospice Care?

Absolutely not. As a consumer, you're encouraged to explore all of your healthcare choices. Our staff will coordinate services with your physician, when necessary, as he/she directs your care. There are many levels of care to consider when diagnosed, and medical care is provided under the direction of your personal physician or by our Medical Director, as appropriate.

How are programs and services of Trellis Supportive CareCenter funded?

Services are provided to anyone regardless of ability to pay. Generally, services are reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid and by most private insurance. We rely upon financial support from memorial contributions, donations, church funding, special events, and the United Way to supplement specialized programs.

Is care provided only in the homes of patients?

NO. Care is provided wherever our patients call home. Services are available to residents of nursing homes, assisted living communities, group and rest homes, and at the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, as appropriate.

What programs are available to people in the community who are grieving the death of a loved one?

Counseling and bereavement services are available to patients and families cared for by Trellis Supportive Care, North Carolina's original hospice and palliative care provider. Additionally, we have programs designed to serve anyone in the community grieving the death of a loved one. Individual counseling, group sessions and community workshops designed for both adults and children are available throughout the year under the guidance of professional counselors.

What is the benefit of accessing care from the Trellis Supportive CareCenter?

There are many benefits. The most significant benefit is that the patient and family receive support and care from a specially trained team of clinical staff and volunteers. This care is designed to meet the medical needs of the patient and family, and to enhance emotional, spiritual and social well-being when dignity, comfort and peace-of-mind matter most. Lastly, hospice care — covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance providers — can ease the financial burdens of those facing a serious or life-limiting illness.