Counselling the terminally ill - Can we prepare for death?

Abstract

The family medical practitioner is a key player when care of the patient becomes palliative. The practitioner's ability to be present to the psychological, spiritual and social needs - in addition to the physical -gives reassurance and affirmation of life up to the point of death. Counselling in the medical field and the approach to opening up a conversation with a patient or family member is discussed.