Palliative Oncology

Palliative oncology is a subspecialty focused on improving the quality of life of cancer patients and their families by addressing physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs throughout the cancer journey, not just at the end of life.

Goals of Palliative Care in Oncology

Relieve pain and other distressing symptoms

Provide psychosocial and spiritual support

Help with decision-making and advance care planning

Support family and caregivers

Improve quality of life across all stages of cancer

Key Components of Palliative Oncology

Pain (opioids, adjuvants, radiation for bone mets)
Fatigue
Nausea/vomiting
Anorexia/cachexia
Dyspnea
Constipation/diarrhea
Delirium/confusion
Depression/anxiety

Discuss prognosis and goals of care
Clarify patient values and preferences
Guide advance directives and code status
Family meetings and support

Counseling, support groups
Spiritual care providers (chaplains)
Grief and bereavement services

About Us

Dr. (Lt. Col) Ashok Kumar is an experienced Radiation Oncologist with over 23 years of work in treating different types of cancer, such as cancers of the head and neck, brain, female reproductive system, and urinary system.