Presenter: Annette Carron, DO, CMD, FACOI, FAAHPM

Bio: Annette Carron, DO, CMD, FACOI, FAAHPM, is an attending physician in the department of Geriatrics and Palliative Care at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital in Clinton Township, MI, and is the medical director for Seasons Hospice Michigan. She is a certified medical director, board certified in hospice and palliative medicine as well as geriatrics and internal medicine. She has spoken frequently on pain management, hospice and palliative care, including helping present the American Medical Association Educating Physicians on End-of-Life Care (EPEC) curriculum. Dr. Carron is also assistant clinical professor of Internal Medicine at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and serves as immediate past-president of the American College of Osteopathic Internists.

Session Description: 

In this session, our presenter will address discussion points to determine when is the right time to refer a patient to hospice, both from medical and emotional standpoints. Information will include determining the goal of care for the individual. We will also discuss common symptoms present at the end of life, including pain, shortness of breath, and terminal congestion. Patients also have emotional and spiritual suffering, and we’ll address the importance of managing this for both the patient and their family. 

Learning Objectives
1.    Learn the difference between palliative care and hospice.
2.    Gain insight into appropriate time for hospice referral.
3.    Understand symptoms that present at the end of life and how best to treat.