The Uncomfortable Truth about Death

The group discussion focused on end-of-life care, including the uncomfortable truths about death and the changing landscape of healthcare in the United States. Andrew McPherson, managing partner at health policy consulting firm Health, spiria, hosted the panel discussion which included national healthcare leaders Sherek Owens, Jessica McClure, David G, and Alicia Stokes. The panel discussed the stigma and misconceptions associated with end-of-life care and death in the country, exploring existing therapies, interventions, and strategies that could normalize conversations about death and end-of-life care. They debated the influence of artificial intelligence and discussed the need for access to resources for family caregivers. The panel also examined the challenge of health equity at the end of life and the importance of acknowledging inherent biases in healthcare to ensure the fair care of diverse patient groups. The engagement also set out pioneering care models that focus on person-centered care, highlighting the value of home-based care models and innovative technology in improving end-of-life care. The panelists concluded by expressing a wish for policymakers to provide more support for early palliative care initiatives and access to technology resources.