Snyder Cosponsors Bill For Improved Access To & Education of Advance Directives Washington - U.S. Representative Vic Snyder has signed on as an original cosponsor of the Advance Directives Improvement and Education Act of 2005, which would improve access to information on health care options and legal rights for persons receiving end-of-life care. The legislation would cover a doctor visit for Medicare beneficiaries to discuss end-of-life medical decisions. It also would fund a public education campaign under the Department of Health and Human Services to increase awareness of living wills among Americans of all ages. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Senator Bill Nelson of Florida and will be introduced in the House next week. Snyder joined Senators Nelson, Rodham Clinton, and Representatives Levin and Cardin in a press conference at the U.S. Capitol today to discuss Nelson’s bill. “Though it is a difficult subject for both you and your family, it is necessary to discuss end-of-life decisions,” said Congressman Vic Snyder, a family physician. “With the right information and guidelines, creating advance directives now can help you, your family, and your doctor in the future.” Several medical associations back the legislation, including the American Health Care Association, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Hospital Association, Hospice Foundation of America, National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, among others. -30- |