ND SCR4010

Requests Legislative Management to study the status and importance of coordinated palliative care in North Dakota to develop solutions, tools, and best practices for patients with chronic diseases

Defines palliative care as patient- and family-centered medical care that optimizes quality of life by anticipating, preventing, and treating suffering from serious illness, addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs

Establishes that palliative care is appropriate at any age and stage of illness, can be provided alongside curative treatment, and includes goal-setting discussions and comprehensive pain and symptom management

Cites studies showing palliative care can provide substantial cost reductions and enable earlier identification of hospice patients for longer service access, while addressing increased burdens on the U.S. health care system from aging populations and chronic conditions

Requires Legislative Management to report findings and recommendations, including any necessary legislation, to the Sixty-sixth Legislative Assembly