It’s late at night, and you’re sitting in a hospital room, holding the hand of a loved one who’s just been diagnosed with a serious illness. The doctor has explained the treatment options, but the weight of the diagnosis feels overwhelming. Questions swirl in your mind: How do we make the most of the time we have? How do we ensure they’re comfortable, supported, and able to live well, even in the face of illness?

This is where palliative care steps in—a field dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients and their families during some of life’s most challenging moments. And few people understand this better than Dr. Steven Pantilat, a pioneer in palliative care and a leading voice in redefining how we approach serious illness.

As the Chief of the Division of Palliative Medicine at UCSF, Steven has spent decades advocating for patient-centered care, focusing on symptoms, values, and emotional support. His work began during the AIDS crisis in San Francisco, where he saw firsthand the importance of honoring patients’ wishes and providing compassionate care, even when a cure wasn’t possible.

In this episode, Steven shares his journey from those early days to becoming a national leader in palliative care. We’ll explore the challenges he’s faced, the lessons he’s learned, and his vision for a future where palliative care is an integral part of healthcare for everyone facing serious illness.

Do you have thoughts on this episode or suggestions for future guests? We’d love to hear from you. Email us at hello@rosenmaninstitute.org.