In 2014, where was palliative care primarily delivered?

The delivery of palliative care in 2014 was primarily in acute care settings due to several factors. Hospitals often serve as the primary location for patients needing immediate and complex medical interventions, making acute care settings essential for managing severe symptoms and situations that require intensive medical oversight. In these environments, palliative care teams can provide essential support in symptom management, decision-making, and aligning care plans with patients' goals and values.

Additionally, acute care settings facilitate access to specialized medical staff and resources that can be critical in managing serious illnesses, allowing for comprehensive and coordinated care plans. The presence of interdisciplinary teams in hospitals also enhances the ability to address the multifaceted needs of patients receiving palliative care. This collaborative environment is conducive to integrating palliative care principles effectively into the larger medical treatment framework.

While home care, nursing homes, and outpatient surgery centers offer important roles in the continuum of care for those with serious illnesses, the acute care setting remains a primary focus for the delivery of palliative care services, particularly during critical or exacerbated phases of a patient's disease.