Steffen Eychmüller, a Swiss expert in palliative medicine, discusses the significance of quality care for terminally ill patients and the challenges families face when caring for loved ones at home, as most prefer to die in familiar surroundings. While palliative care aims to enhance life quality before death, inadequate specialist support and care networks hinder this in Switzerland. Eychmüller highlights the emotional and physical burdens on family caregivers and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging life’s finiteness.
As Hermann Hesse, the renowned German-Swiss author, poignantly stated, “Death is to life as night is to day.” A recent federal survey reveals that a significant number of individuals wish to spend their final moments at home. However, this desire brings challenges for family members. In a discussion, Steffen Eychmüller, a Professor of Palliative Medicine and Chief Physician at Inselspital Bern, shares insights into the state of palliative care in Switzerland.
What is Palliative Medical Care?
Steffen Eychmüller: Palliative medical care extends beyond the concept of dying; it focuses on enhancing the quality of life for those facing terminal illnesses. This approach combines effective medication with supportive structures that ensure patients do not feel isolated in times of crisis. It is crucial for patients to understand how to manage their conditions and know where to seek help when necessary, fostering a sense of reassurance during an incredibly difficult period.
Is Palliative Care Adequately Integrated into Swiss Healthcare?
Unfortunately, the initiation of palliative care is frequently delayed until it becomes clear that curative treatment is no longer feasible. Many individuals dread this moment and mistakenly believe that they have run out of options. Establishing a well-defined backup plan from the beginning would be advantageous.
Many individuals wish to die at home—can mobile palliative care in Switzerland fulfill this desire?
Currently, I would argue that it cannot. We face two main issues: a shortage of specialists qualified to offer these services and a lack of private networks, such as supportive families capable of caring for the severely ill at home. The so-called 95-to-5 rule illustrates this: patients often spend 95 percent of their time without specialized care, with only 5 percent being supervised by professionals. This challenge extends beyond the healthcare system into the realm of societal expectations.
Ultimately, we all may find ourselves in the role of palliative caregivers, whether intentionally or inadvertently, when caring for a seriously ill loved one. This can impose a significant strain on family members who struggle to balance caregiving duties with professional and parental responsibilities.
Isn’t this an immense burden for family caregivers?
Absolutely, it is a substantial challenge. Caregiving is not only physically demanding; it also takes an emotional toll. Family members often find themselves on call 24/7. They must also recognize when it becomes unsustainable to continue at home. If stress levels rise too high, considering a hospice might be a better option for a loved one’s final days. This can alleviate the pressure, allowing family members to focus on their relationships rather than being caregivers. Many relatives report feeling relief after making this decision, even if they initially intended to support their loved one at home.
Should people be more aware of life’s transience in their everyday lives?
I believe this is a valuable notion, one that has been cherished through centuries with philosophies like “Carpe Diem,” which encourage living fully in the moment. Embracing this wisdom is essential; it allows us to slow down and truly appreciate our surroundings.
Interview conducted by David Karasek, with assistance from Géraldine Jäggi.