Abstract

In the intricate landscape of healthcare, primary care physicians (PCPs) emerge as the linchpin, serving as the initial point of contact for patients and delivering a diverse array of essential healthcare services. This article illuminates the pivotal role of PCPs in providing primary palliative care, emphasizing its holistic approach to enhance the quality of life for individuals confronting serious illnesses. PCPs wield indispensable skills in symptom management, effective communication, advance care planning, emotional support, and facilitating discussions about goals of care, allowing them to significantly contribute to patient well-being. However, certain scenarios necessitate referrals to specialized palliative care teams, particularly in cases involving complex symptom management, psychosocial and spiritual distress, ethical complexities, uncertain prognoses, and considerations of hospice eligibility. Collaborative efforts between PCPs and palliative care specialists ensure a comprehensive, patient-centered approach, ultimately elevating patient comfort and overall quality of life.