Palliative care 2000--home care.

In summary, although I have reservations about the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of regional palliative care centres as described in the report, my recommendations strongly concur with those of the Expert Panel on Palliative Care. With reference to home care, I would like to reiterate the following major points: There must be a major shift of resources into home care and the establishment of "in-the-home projects" within palliative care units. The control of suffering--palliative care--must be a full and equal partner in cancer care. The specialized aspect of home care will benefit from the direct network of a regional medical advisory committee, a quick-response and consultant team, and the integrated coordination system that a regional model offers.

Patient Criteria & Setting