INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC DISEASE IN PATIENTS WITH PALLIATIVE CARE NEEDS AS PERSON-CENTRED APPROACH

Chronic diseases are a major cause of morbidity, disability, and mortality worldwide. As chronic conditions progress, many patients experience complex physical symptoms, psychological distress, social difficulties, and spiritual concerns that significantly affect their quality of life. Patients with advanced chronic diseases may therefore develop palliative care needs alongside their ongoing disease-directed treatment. The management of chronic disease in this population requires a shift from focusing exclusively on cure or disease control toward a comprehensive, person-centred approach that addresses comfort, function, autonomy and quality of life. The main objectives include effective symptom management, preservation of functional ability, psychological and social support, shared decision-making, advance care planning, coordination of care and appropriate use of medical treatments. Palliative care should be integrated early rather than reserved only for the final days of life. This paper discusses the principal objectives and approaches to the management of chronic diseases in patients with palliative care needs and emphasizes the importance of holistic, multidisciplinary and patient-centred care. Advance care planning and effective communication are also essential components of care, particularly as the patient's condition deteriorates.

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