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My mother has just been told she has end of life liver cancer. How do we get palliative care started? Is it through the specialist or the GP?

Allan167
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My mother has just been told that she has weeks to a few months to live. This is because of bone cancer that has spread to her other organs. 

What should I do as my next step to make sure that we get the palliative care start as soon as possible? Currently not in pain but is suffering sickness and diarrhoea. Should we contact the GP for drugs to stop the sickness and to make life more comfortable? Or would this typically be arranged by the specialist?

This is in Scotland. 

Thanks in advance. 

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat Allan167 although I'm very sorry to hear about your mother. This must have been such heart-breaking news to receive.

    I'm sure some of our members who have arranged palliative care for members of their family will share their experiences and advice with you soon, but in the meantime I hope this information we have about managing symptoms and support at home for you and your family will be useful.

    For further information and advice, our team of cancer nurses are available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very easy to talk to and will do all they can to answer your questions and guide you through this process.

    I can't begin to imagine how difficult and upsetting this time must be for you and your family, but we are here for you Allan167, and are sending all our strength and support your way.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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