ASCO publishes 32-page information guide.
In October 2014, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) published a patient education booklet titled Palliative Care: Improving Quality of Life for Patients and Families. The booklet is available for viewing and downloading at Cancer.Net and also is available in print from the ASCO University Bookstore at a cost of $35 for a pack of 125 booklets.
The 32-page booklet defines palliative care, describes how it differs from hospice care, and discusses how and where palliative care is provided. The section on goals of palliative care includes managing symptoms and side effects, practical concerns, spiritual questions, and support for family, friends, and caregivers. The booklet includes conversation pointers to assist patients in identifying palliative care needs and asking about palliative care services, and includes a list of resources and palliative care dictionary. ASCO also offers additional palliative care resources in the palliative care section of its “Navigating Cancer Care” webpage.