Many clinicians confuse palliative care with hospice or don’t realize palliative care can begin at diagnosis alongside curative treatment. This guide provides side-by-side comparison of who qualifies, when to refer, and what each service provides—making it clear that palliative care improves quality of life during treatment while hospice focuses on comfort at end of life. Includes clinical indicators, red flags requiring immediate referral, and guidance on discussing these options with clients in recovery.