End-of-life counseling beneficial for patients

It was refreshing and encouraging to find an important component of the health care debate, end-of-life counseling, on the front page of the

Aug. 19 Gazette. For too long this important quality- of-life matter has often been relegated to a “things to do” list before one dies and ends up being “buried” in the obituaries. Sadly, many families fail to talk about it, for fear of creating discomfort and more fear.

The article noted a study finds that offering such care to dying cancer patients improves their mood and quality of life. Through an open dialogue with family as well as doctors, nurses, social workers and clergy, the patient can only benefit by such a supporting cast. Here is where their medical, social and spiritual needs can best be addressed.

I would hope that politicians refrain from preying on fear in order to support their political positions and instead become advocates for frank discussion about end-of-life counseling.

Paul Monska

Cedar Rapids