Ask our physicians.

While not all questions can be answered in this forum, Midwest CareCenter physicians want to know your concerns. Send questions by e-mail or mail to:

Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter
Attention: Communications Department
2050 Claire Ct.
Glenview, IL 60025

For immediate assistance, you can reach us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at: (847) 467-7423, TTY: (800) 526-0857.

Questions about palliative care and hospice

When is the best time to enroll in a hospice program?

My neighbor just had hospice care when she was in the hospital. Isn’t hospice care only for patients at home?

How does a hospice program work with my personal physician?

I have recently started hearing a new term, "palliative care," used in connection with the term "hospice." Are they the same, or different, and if so, how?

Is hospice only for the last six months of life?

My father is in the latter stages of Alzheimer’s and his hospice nurse has suggested music-thanatology. How is it different from music therapy?

I recently decided to have a mastectomy for a new diagnosis of breast cancer. My friends say I should call now for palliative care help. Isn’t that a bit premature?

Questions about chronic, progressive disease

My mother is showing early signs of Alzheimer’s. What should we anticipate and how can we plan for her care needs as the disease advances?

I was diagnosed with a bone marrow problem a few years ago. Recently, the illness has progressed and new treatments have been recommended. I don’t want hospice; I plan to keep on fighting this disease. Can Midwest CareCenter help me?

The pain from my rheumatoid arthritis and other health problems interferes with my daily life. What is available for my pain and where can I go for help?

My doctor prescribed pain medication for my osteoarthritis but I am afraid to take it—aren’t a lot of prescription pain medications addictive?

Concerns about aging and managing daily living

I care for my mother who suffers from a variety of age-related health issues that seem to have become more severe but are not life-threatening. What care alternatives should we consider?

As I’ve gotten older and some of my health conditions have gotten worse, I find I have more trouble sleeping through the night. Is insomnia just a symptom of aging or can something be done to help me sleep better?