title: The role of the general practitioner in palliative care.
abstract: Palliative care tests the general practitioner's generalist skills. The work is not easy. We are trying to control symptoms that progress, feeling at times like the driver of a car with no brakes. It can evoke emotions of disturbing intensity. However, it is intensely rewarding work as well. The privilege of sharing life's journey with a patient, helping to enhance his or her quality of life, is one open to very few in our society. It is a privilege we should eagerly accept, as we are invited to stand with our patients facing their final challenge.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Mitchell
mesh_terms: D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D010146:Pain / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D059408:Pain Management; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D010819:Physician's Role; D011368:Professional-Family Relations; D014342:Truth Disclosure