Physicians Back Palliative Care To Boost Quality of Life
A poll conducted by the Regence Foundation for National Journal found that nearly all physicians said they support medical care services that focus on quality of life for dying patients over efforts to extend patients' lives for as long as possible. The poll, which surveyed 500 board-certified physicians, found that 96% of respondents emphasize quality of life over length of life and that a similar majority said the U.S. health system should prioritize palliative care services. Eighty-two percent of respondents cited reimbursement as an issue hindering better palliative care.
- "Poll: Doctors Support Policy Once Derided as 'Death Panels'" (Baker, "Healthwatch," The Hill, 11/15).