Dr. Mery Lossada talks about hospice, palliative medicine, and end-of-life care, sharing her 17 years of experience in leading hospice teams and developing palliative care. She believes that the difference between hospice and palliative care is often not as big as it seems because both focus on easing pain, helping patients with long-term illnesses, and addressing all aspects of a person’s life, including tough talks and unanswered questions. Dr. Lossada suggests that patients should make advance directives and discuss hospice early on so they can decide when treatments aren’t worth the "return investment" anymore and change their goals without feeling like they’re giving up. She stresses the importance of talking in ways that suit each person, being honest about uncertain outcomes, and knowing the signs that someone is near the end of life. Listen in as Dr. Lossada  points out the challenges caregivers face and the benefits of getting palliative care involved early to help and train families. 

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