Health care program which seeks to improve the quality of life for patients and families who are facing serious or advanced illness. Palliative care provides close attention to the emotional, physical and social aspects of illness. Management of Difficult Symptoms - Pain, nausea, anxiety, fatigue, depression, shortness of breath, constipation, loss of appetite and other symptoms may accompany serious illness or can be side effects of current treatment Addressing Changing Goals of Care - Helps patients consider care options and make decisions about quality of life - Interprets benefits and burdens of care, such as tests, surgeries or medication Enhancing Patient and Family Support - Helps identify what is important to the patient and their family - Promotes the best quality of life - Promotes well-being and peace of mind - Supports communication in complicated family situations