> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ismms-md-program.gitbook.io/medinfoapp/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ismms-md-program.gitbook.io/medinfoapp/ascend-phase-2-clerkships/palliative-care.md).

# Palliative Care

## <mark style="background-color:blue;">Mission Statement of the Clerkship</mark>

The Palliative Care Clerkship is designed to immerse medical students in patient-centered palliative care, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes necessary to provide compassionate care for patients with serious illness.

***

## <mark style="background-color:blue;">Goals of the Clerkship</mark>

The goals of the Palliative Care clerkship are:

1. Understand the principles and philosophy of palliative care, differentiate it from hospice, identify indications for consultation, and describe the roles of the interdisciplinary team in providing holistic care.
2. Develop skills in assessing and managing pain, non-pain symptoms, and the physical aspects of serious illness.
3. Gain proficiency in patient- and family-centered communication, serious illness discussions, values clarification, and advance care planning.
4. Recognize the psychosocial, existential, and spiritual needs of patients and caregivers, understand grief and caregiver distress.
5. Engage effectively within an interdisciplinary team and reflect on personal growth and self-care while caring for seriously ill patients.

Please see additional goals [here](https://files.gitbook.com/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FOo7oNvix0SS7VR7eryOZ%2Fuploads%2FIdGoW1RgooocHcjDYpGt%2FPalliative%20Care%20Clerkship%20goals.pdf?alt=media\&token=74e1e4a6-a699-4d64-bc94-78f1871d82db).


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