The role of the general practitioner in palliative care.
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.
Mitchell
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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