In early 2002, the Michigan legislature signed into effect a package of bills that improves pain management of dying patients and expands access to hospice care. Most of the bills in the bipartisan package were the result of recommendations proposed by the Michigan Commission on End-of-Life Care, established by Gov. John Engler in 1999. Dorothy E. Deremo, HOM's CEO, was one of the 12 members of the commission.

It is gratifying to see Michigan on the forefront, leading the nation in providing appropriate and compassionate end-of-life care. All too often, individuals' final weeks and months are marred by terminal illness, pain and suffering. The legislation ensures that patients have the information needed to make the optimal choices for care and the relief of pain and suffering.

The new legislation now will require health facilities - whether hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, long-term care or assisted care facilities - to notify individuals about the availability of hospice care.

The package of bills clarifies the disclosure of information on pain and symptom management treatments to patients and their families. It removes barriers to appropriate medication for pain and symptom management. These changes will go a long way toward improving the quality of life through the end of life.