Geriatrics and Gerontology

Biography

Biography: Wendy Stoelting-Gettelfinger

Abstract

An effective partnership between primary care and palliative care is crucial to improving the quality of life for many patients and their families. Innovative solutions must be developed to address the current shortage of palliative care specialists. One viable solution is the partnership between palliative and primary care referred to as “primary palliative care”. Primary care providers including advance practice nurse providers (primary care providers) are in a unique position to manage symptoms, assist families with treatment plan decisions and make early referrals to coordinate interdisciplinary care with the ultimate goal of reducing patient suffering and improving quality of life. Primary care providers often have long-term relationships with their patients and an insightful understanding of family dynamics. Primary care providers are in a trusted position to assist families with difficult care decisions without infringing upon their autonomous rights. Unfortunately, primary care providers depending upon their background and expertise may or may not be knowledgeable in the difference between palliative care and end-of-life services. Understanding these key differences as well as the differences between primary, secondary and tertiary palliative care is fundamental for primary providers to provide appropriate care. Educating primary care providers regarding the key role that they can play in coordinating interdisciplinary palliative primary care is the first step to providing comprehensive, un-fragmented care for patients needing palliative care services. Understanding that palliative care can improve outcomes, save health care dollars while improving quality of life is essential to successful interdisciplinary partnerships and coordination of palliative care services.