Palliative medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on providing relief from pain and other symptoms associated with serious illness. The goal of palliative care is to improve the quality of life for patients who are facing chronic, advanced or life-threatening conditions by addressing their physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs. This type of medicine is provided in conjunction with curative treatment and can be given at any stage of a patient's illness. It involves a team approach that includes physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains and other healthcare professionals who work together to provide comprehensive care for the patient and their family. Palliative medicine is focused on providing comfort and support to patients and their families during what can be an emotionally challenging time.