Cardiac Palliative Care in Joliet & Northern Illinois
Did you know that Coronary heart disease affects over 18 million American’s annually and it is rising! Healthcare providers and emergency departments see millions of visits every year related to cardiovascular disease and heart disease remains the leading cause of death globally.
Serious Illness Care
Lightways Cardiac Care Team
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with heart disease and are experiencing chronic life-limiting illness from the disease, the Lightways Serious Illness Care interdisciplinary team is here to help. With our unique cardiac management program we are able to provide enhanced patient monitoring and resources with the goal of reducing hospital visits and creating a better way of life.
Lightways Serious Illness Care team provides health care that can ease pain and other symptoms and side effects from your illness or treatment to help you and your family.
Lightways Cardiac Care Pathway
Nurse Practitioner initial visit:
- Assessment and management of symptoms.
- Reviewing medications for optimal pharmacological treatment.
- Education surrounding illness and prognosis.
- Review of goals of care/advanced care planning.
- HRS system ordered for monitoring of HR, O2, BP, Weight, and symptom survey.
Chronic Disease Management
- Daily monitoring of vitals and symptom survey via HRS Remote Patient Monitoring System.
- Nurse Practitioner visit every 2-4 weeks.
- Monitoring for symptoms related to chronic disease such as edema, dyspnea, anorexia, constipation, fatigue, anxiety, panic, depression, pain, poor sleep.
- Education/review non-pharmacological interventions (ex. Monitoring daily weights, dietary restrictions, fluid restrictions, use of compression socks).
- Monitor ADL and social emotional functioning.
- Referral to social worker to assist with referrals within community.
- Review medication changes and provide education on new medications.
- Possible addition of medications such as:
– Diuretics- Edema.
– benzodiazepines -anxiety.
– antidepressants- improve mood.
– opioids and oxygen-angina and/or breathlessness. - Continued goals of care discussions and referral to hospice when appropriate.
Increased visit frequency based on patient symptoms.
CareSimple for Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)
We use CareSimple for Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM), making it easier for patients and families to stay connected to their care team from home. Patients do not need internet or Wi-Fi access because each device uses its own built-in cellular connection.
Common monitoring devices may include:
- Blood pressure cuffs
- Weight scales
- Heart rate and oxygen monitors
- Blood glucose monitors
- Thermometers
- Breathing monitors (spirometers)
These devices automatically send health readings directly to healthcare professionals, allowing care teams to monitor patients between visits and respond quickly if concerns arise.
Unlike other systems that require smartphones, apps, tablets, or Wi-Fi setup, CareSimple devices are simple and easy to use.
Each device has a built-in SIM card that securely transmits information automatically, no pairing or technical setup required. This makes the program especially user-friendly for seniors and helps reduce technology-related frustrations for patients and caregivers.
Lightways Serious Illness Care FAQs
What conditions are considered serious illness?
Serious Illness Care is for anyone who has an advanced or life-limiting illness including cancer, dementia, heart and lung diseases like CHF and COPD, end Stage Renal Disease, liver disease, ALS, HIV/AIDS and others.
Will I still see my doctors and be under their care?
Yes, you can still remain under the care of your physicians. We should be considered “another layer of support” for you, helping with care coordination with your healthcare team.
If I accept Serious Illness Care does that mean that I am giving up and stopping treatment?
Patients can continue to receive curative treatment under the care of their physicians. Our role is to support your care by minimizing your symptoms. We want to help you feel the best you can while you enjoy the things you love and the people in your life.
Where can I receive care, do I need to come to you or go to my doctor’s office?
We come to you–your home, or if you live in a skilled nursing or assisted living facility.
What type of insurance coverage do I need to have?
Medicare and most insurance companies cover our services.
SERIOUS ILLNESS CARE: ALS Care | Cardiac Care | Serious Illness Care
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Call us and let’s review options.
Nurses are available 24/7 to answer your questions and explain how we can help.