Two groups, the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) Deprescribing Task Force and the Choosing Wisely initiative, have joined forces. Their joint goal is to focus on the appropriate use of medications for patients at the end-of-life (EOL). Together, they have identified the importance of having conversations with patients, and have suggested a "less is more" approach to medications. They have also established a limited life expectancy of 24 months, and this time frame allows for much-needed discussions about hospice and palliative care.
Unfortunately, our health system actively discourages these thoughtful approaches (conversations & palliative care) in favor of expensive, invasive, and ultimately useless treatments. My book, The Journey's End, can help you learn more about EOL care and ways to improve it.
Comments