Palliative Care

UnityPoint Health – St. Luke's Hospital

Palliative Care is all about you.

Our designated palliative care team is designed to support you and your family regarding medical decisions related to your serious illness. Our purpose is to focus on your quality of life while considering your healthcare decisions and goals.

Meet Our Palliative Care Team

Inpatient Palliative Care

Inpatient Palliative Care works with patients who have been admitted to St. Luke's Hospital. Once a referral is received, our team will set up a consultation with you and your loved ones to talk about your goals and wishes for your healthcare. The palliative care team will work with your healthcare providers to ensure you’re receiving the care you want to receive and that aligns with your goals. We will move with you as you enter various healthcare settings, helping communicate your goals to the medical staff at each location to ensure your wishes are respected and honored.

Ambulatory – Community-Based Palliative Care

Community-based palliative care visits take place outside the hospital, in the clinic or wherever you live, such as a long-term care facility, assisted living facility or at home. The goals of Community Palliative Care are to manage your distressing symptoms, help you make important decisions about your healthcare goals and support your family.

Learn More About Palliative Care

FAQs

Where are palliative care services provided?
In Cedar Rapids, palliative care services are provided in the hospital, at a clinic or where you currently live, depending on your need.

How can I request palliative care services in the Cedar Rapids area?
A referral is required to receive palliative care services. If you are interested in palliative care for yourself or a loved one, talk with your current provider or call (319) 369-7909 to receive further assistance.

Resources Available as You Care for Your Loved One
Respite Services

UnityPoint Health – AbbeHealth Services (Aging Services)
Aging Services has a Respite Program designed to provide a break for you. Hourly rates and schedule are determined by you and the respite provider. Financial assistance may be available for eligible caregivers.

Adult Day Care Services

Adult Day Health Center programs are designed to enhance the lives of adults and caregivers by providing day support services in a home-like environment.

Locations:

UnityPoint Health – AbbeHealth Services (Milestones Adult Day Health Centers)  

UnityPoint Health – AbbeHealth Services Pathways Adult Day Health Center

What is Palliative Care?

Dr. James Bell, medical director for St. Luke's Palliative Care, joins Dr. Arnold to discuss what is Palliative Care, who it's for, services they provide, how it differs from Hospice care and more.