Learning Objectives: 

1.    Differentiate between traditional late-referral palliative care models and evidence-based early integration approaches, including identification of appropriate timing for palliative care consultation in patients with serious illness regardless of prognosis.

2.    Evaluate the role of interdisciplinary palliative care teams in supporting complex decision-making and symptom management across the continuum of care from inpatient to outpatient settings.

3.    Apply prognostic frameworks and communication strategies to facilitate goals-of-care discussions with patients and families throughout the trajectory of serious illness, particularly in the ambulatory setting.