207QH0002X Hospice and Palliative Medicine (Family Medicine) Physician

Definition: A family medicine physician with special knowledge and skills to prevent and relieve the suffering experienced by patients with life-limiting illnesses. This specialist works with an interdisciplinary hospice or palliative care team to maximize quality of life while addressing physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of both patient and family throughout the course of the disease, through the dying process, and beyond for the family. This specialist has expertise in the assessment of patients with advanced disease; the relief of distressing symptoms; the coordination of interdisciplinary patient and family-centered care in diverse venues; the use of specialized care systems including hospice; the management of the imminently dying patient; and legal and ethical decision making in end-of-life care.
Grouping: Allopathic & Osteopathic Physicians
Classification: Family Medicine
Specialization: Hospice and Palliative Medicine
Section: Individual
Notes: Source: American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, www.aahpm.org [1/1/2007: new]

Related Taxonomies

Parent Classification

Family Medicine Physician

A healthcare provider who cares for patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and treats a wide range of health concerns. Family medicine physicians provide routine check-ups, manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, treat common illnesses and minor injuries, give vaccinations, and offer preventive care. They focus on the overall health of individuals and families, coordinating care and referring to specialists when needed.

Other Specializations

Addiction Medicine

A healthcare provider who is trained in family medicine and specializes in helping people with substance use problems, such as alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs. They diagnose addiction, create treatment plans, support recovery, and help manage withdrawal symptoms. Patients can expect counseling, medication management, and ongoing care for issues related to addiction, as well as support for their overall health and well-being.

Adolescent Medicine

A healthcare provider who specializes in caring for teenagers and young adults, addressing their physical, emotional, and social health needs. They help with common concerns like puberty, growth and development, mental health, sports injuries, sexual health, and chronic conditions such as asthma or diabetes. Patients can expect support with health education, preventive care, and guidance on issues unique to adolescence.

A healthcare provider who specializes in caring for adult patients, focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of common illnesses and chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and infections. Patients can expect routine check-ups, health screenings, management of ongoing health issues, and advice on healthy lifestyle choices. This provider coordinates care and refers to specialists as needed.

Geriatric Medicine

A healthcare provider who specializes in caring for older adults, focusing on the unique health needs that come with aging. They help manage common conditions such as memory loss, arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and mobility issues. Patients can expect support with preventive care, medication management, rehabilitation, and advice for healthy aging in settings like the home, clinic, nursing home, or hospital.

Obesity Medicine

A doctor who specializes in family medicine and has advanced training in treating obesity. This physician helps patients manage weight and related health issues through personalized plans that may include nutrition guidance, exercise, behavior changes, and medication. They work with patients to address causes of obesity and may coordinate care with dietitians, mental health professionals, and surgeons. Patients can expect ongoing support for weight loss, prevention of obesity, and care before and after weight loss surgery.

Physician Nutrition Specialist

A physician who specializes in helping patients prevent and manage health problems related to nutrition, such as obesity, diabetes, undernutrition, and metabolic disorders. This doctor offers personalized nutrition plans, supports healthy eating habits, screens for malnutrition, and provides guidance for managing conditions like cancer or Alzheimer’s through diet. Patients can expect expert advice on nutrition, support during hospital stays, and care before and after surgeries to improve recovery and overall health.

A doctor who specializes in both family medicine and sleep medicine helps people of all ages with sleep problems. They diagnose and treat conditions like sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs, snoring, and issues with sleep schedules. Patients can expect thorough evaluations, sleep studies if needed, and personalized plans to improve sleep quality and overall health.

Sports Medicine

A doctor who specializes in family medicine and has additional training in sports medicine. This physician helps people of all ages stay active and healthy, treats sports injuries like sprains, strains, and fractures, and manages conditions such as concussions and joint pain. They also provide advice on exercise, injury prevention, safe return to sports, and overall physical fitness. Patients can expect care focused on both treating injuries and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.

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