A common misunderstanding
Many people think palliative care means 'giving up'. It does not. Palliative care runs alongside active treatment for many patients, focusing on symptoms, quality of life, and support for the family.
What palliative care includes
Depending on what you need, palliative care may involve:
- Pain and symptom management
- Support for nausea, fatigue and breathlessness
- Emotional and psychological support
- Help planning ahead, at your pace
- Coordination with home-care providers
How palliative care works with our practice
North Coast Oncology does not offer palliative care as a standalone specialty discipline. Our oncologists and nursing team provide supportive symptom management alongside your cancer treatment, and refer patients to accredited hospice and palliative care providers when dedicated palliative input is needed.
Hospice and palliative care support
Hospice services in KwaZulu-Natal provide home-based nursing, day care, counselling and bereavement support, often at little or no cost. Ask reception for a referral, or use the contacts below:
- Hospice Zululand — 18 Turnbull Street, Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal. Telephone 035 772 4910, email manager@zululandhospice.org.za
- Hospice Palliative Care Association of South Africa (HPCA) — national directory of member hospices, hpca.co.za
- CANSA Care Centres — patient support, counselling and home-based care, 0800 22 66 22
- Your nearest clinic or GP for after-hours symptom advice
- North Coast Oncology reception for a referral — 087 092 5665
When to ask for help sooner
Contact the practice during working hours, or go to your nearest emergency department immediately, if you experience severe or uncontrolled pain, breathlessness, bleeding, or a fever while on chemotherapy.
Speak to our team
Have questions about your own situation?
General information cannot replace a consultation. Contact the practice to discuss your specific diagnosis and treatment options.