5 chapters across the catalog
Reports suggest that HCA Healthcare staff may be pressuring families to move patients into hospice care to improve hospital mortality statistics. By moving terminal patients to hospice, their deaths are not counted against the hospital's quality ratings. This practice raises serious ethical questions about the prioritization of business metrics over patient care.
Baron Husky Bottoms from Tennessee shares a personal story about his 17-year marriage and the home births of his three children. He also recounts the emotional passing of his 15-year-old Corgi, The Duke, in a meadow, reflecting on the difference between being alive and truly living.
Kaiser Permanente Social Workers, End-of-Life Care
John C. Dvorak shares a personal story about his mother's death under Kaiser Permanente's care, alleging that social workers pressured him to move her to a private facility to free up hospital beds. He describes the "hard sell" tactics used by the insurance company to avoid fulfilling their contractual obligations for long-term care. The hosts link this experience to the broader "Death with Dignity" legislative push.
Kathleen Sebelius, End-of-Life Care Discussions
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius appeared on Sunday morning talk shows to discuss end-of-life care measures within the healthcare reform debate. Critics argue these measures are cost-cutting tools, while Sebelius characterizes them as personal family discussions. The hosts criticize her for failing to provide direct answers to interviewer Jake Tapper.
End-of-Life Consultations, Marriage Definitions in HR 3200
Provisions in the healthcare bill starting on page 425 involve government-mandated consultations regarding living wills and durable powers of attorney. Additionally, the bill contains language regarding the definition of marriage that could impact healthcare eligibility for same-sex couples.
