WellCare of Nebraska, a subsidiary of WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (NYSE: WCG), announced today that its medical director, Dr. Stephen Lazoritz, has received a governor appointment to the newly established Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council.
In May 2017, Gov. Pete Ricketts approved the Adopt the Palliative Care and Quality Act, which was created to help patients with life-threating illnesses by identifying vital pain and treatment needs early. By supporting the medical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients and their families, palliative care aims to relieve the symptoms and stress that are often caused by serious conditions and improve quality of life.
Approximately, 6 million people in the United States could benefit from palliative care. Unlike hospice care, it can begin once the serious illness is diagnosed.
The passing of the bill established the Palliative Care and Quality of Life Advisory Council. Consequently, a Palliative Care Consumer and Professional Information and Education Program will also be launched in the next several months.
The advisory council as well as the education program will promote vital education opportunities for healthcare professionals regarding best practices and resources on the delivery of palliative care in the home environment and at care facilities, such as hospices.