OH HB603

Creates the Palliative Care and Quality of Life Interdisciplinary Council appointed by the director of health, with members representing physicians, nurses, counselors, social workers, pharmacists, clergy, patients, and family caregivers, including at least two board-certified hospice or palliative care specialists.

Establishes the Palliative Care Consumer and Professional Information and Education Program within the department of health to publish information on palliative care services, continuing education opportunities, best practices, and consumer educational materials on the department's website.

Requires health care facilities (hospitals, surgical facilities, nursing homes, veterans' homes, residential facilities, and hospice programs) to establish systems for identifying patients and residents with serious illnesses who could benefit from palliative care and to provide information about palliative care services.

Defines "serious illness" as medical conditions substantially impacting quality of life for more than a short period, including cancer, heart/renal/liver failure, lung disease, and Alzheimer's disease.

Authorizes the director of health to require non-compliant facilities to submit compliance plans and impose fines, with collected fines deposited to the state general operations fund.