The Palliative Care Program at Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center is a family-centered, culturally sensitive approach to the dignified care of infants and children with life-limiting illnesses. In partnership with our physicians, staff, families and community, we provide total care to the child’s body, mind and spirit. The goal of this hospital based service is to enhance the quality of the child’s life while respecting the family’s goals and wishes. The guiding principles to accomplish these goals are empathy, comfort, support and respect for life.

Our program may be appropriate when:

• A child’s pain and symptoms are complex and a challenge to manage
• A decline in condition is becoming evident
• The goals of care are focused on comfort and quality of life
• Aggressive, curative treatment methods are no longer effective
• A child’s life expectancy is months rather than years

Palliative Care Team:

Le Bonheur Palliative Care provides a team approach in patient care with individualized care plans developed to meet the needs of the child with a focus on quality of life. Our palliative care includes a team of physicians, nurses, pharmacist, social workers, child life specialist, psychologist and chaplains who provide the support and care needed.

Our care helps with the relief of the child’s physical, psychosocial, spiritual, advance care planning, and practical concerns.

• Pain and symptom control
• Coordination with child’s medical care team
• Support system to help children live as actively as possible
• Assistance in making difficult medical decisions
• Spiritual counseling
• Psychological counseling
• Grief and bereavement support

Reach Out to Us:

We understand you’re going through a very difficult time. In coordination with Methodist Home Care and Hospice Programs, Le Bonheur can provide a comprehensive team of caring people to ensure each child receives the best care, even when the child leaves the hospital. Every child is important to Le Bonheur, and our desire is to meet the unique needs of all children and their families.

If you would like to know more about Le Bonheur's Palliative Care Program or to consult with a palliative care coordinator, call 901.516.1600.