🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

A physician is explaining palliative care services to the family of a patient with a serious, chronic illness. Which statement best describes the primary goal of palliative care?

A To aggressively treat the underlying disease with curative intent.
B To provide care focused solely on patients nearing the end of life.
C To improve the quality of life for patients and their families facing serious illness.
D To primarily offer psychological counseling to families after a patient's death.

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life for patients and their families facing serious illness, regardless of prognosis, and can be provided alongside curative treatments, not just at the end of life.

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