Protecting childhood through personalized comfort, support, and care.
Supportive Care Program
The Supportive Care Program at Rady Children’s Health in Orange County, formerly CHOC, provides an extra layer of support for children living with serious or complex medical conditions. Our team focuses on improving comfort, reducing symptoms and stress, and supporting families in navigating medical decisions. Care is based on each child’s unique needs and can be provided at any stage of illness—alongside any other treatments.
Our Approach to Care
The Supportive Care Program exists to reduce suffering and improve quality of life for patients with complex medical conditions. We support patients, families, and the entire care team by building a deep understanding of their feelings and unique needs, strong communication, aligning goals of care, and providing relief through expert symptom and pain management.
Our interdisciplinary Supportive Care team supports your family by:
- Providing initial consultations and follow‑up support in the hospital and other clinics.
- Easing pain and managing symptoms and side effects.
- Helping with communication between families and healthcare providers.
- Identifying goals of care and aligning all involved with the medical care plan.
- Educating healthcare staff.
Frequently Asked Questions About Supportive Care
What is the difference between supportive care and palliative care?
Supportive care includes pediatric palliative care but has a broader focus that also encompasses pediatric pain management and additional supportive services. Both aim to improve quality of life by managing symptoms and reducing stress. Supportive care can be provided at any stage of illness and alongside curative treatments.
Does receiving supportive care mean there is nothing that can be done for my child?
No. There is always something that can be done to support your child. Our team will help you identify your child’s and your family’s most important goals and will work with you to meet them.
How do I know if my child is in pain or has symptoms that need managing?
Our team helps families recognize signs of discomfort in children, such as tension around the eyes or mouth or a “worried look.” We provide both medication‑based and non‑medication strategies to help ease discomfort.
How do I cope with all of my feelings as a parent or family member?
It is natural to feel uncertain when caring for a sick child. Our team works closely with families to offer emotional support and guidance.
Will my child be treated differently if they are connected with the Supportive Care team?
No. Supportive Care is an added layer of support. Treatment will not be withheld simply because your child is receiving supportive care services.
If my child is already under a specialty team, will adding Supportive Care make things more difficult?
Not at all. Our goal is to support and advocate for your child and family. We work to improve communication and coordination among all members of the care team.
