SB 548

This bill establishes a Palliative Care Council within the Department of Health

Services. Under the bill, DHS is required to establish a statewide palliative care

consumer and professional information and education program and must make

available on its Internet site information and resources regarding palliative care.

The bill requires the council to consult with and advise DHS on matters related to

the establishment, maintenance, operation, and outcome evaluation of the program

established by DHS. The council must also consult with and advise DHS regarding

1) the impact palliative care has on families and the experiences of families that have

used or had a family member use palliative care services; 2) establishing a system

for identifying patients or residents who could benefit from palliative care and

determining how to provide information about and facilitate access to appropriate

palliative care services for patients or residents with serious illnesses; and 3) any

other issues relating to palliative care arising through meetings or discussions, as

the council determines appropriate. The bill also requires the council to submit

biennial reports providing its analysis regarding certain issues relating to palliative

care, including the availability of palliative care, barriers to greater access to such

care, policies, practices, and protocols concerning patients' rights related to

palliative care, and the impact of palliative care on families that have experience

with palliative care services. The council and DHS program sunset effective July 1,

2028.