RioSlum Studio

Establishment of the Palliative Care Council

The proposed bill establishes a Palliative Care Council consisting of medical professionals, patients, and family members to provide guidance to the Department of Health Services (DHS) on various aspects of palliative care. The council will evaluate existing palliative care programs, assess the effectiveness of palliative care alongside curative treatments, and address reimbursement mechanisms for these services. Importantly, the council is prohibited from discussing physician-assisted suicide or euthanasia. DHS is tasked with creating an information and education program about palliative care, ensuring resources are accessible to the public and healthcare providers. The council will also submit biennial reports to the legislature on access to palliative care and its impact on healthcare delivery systems.1