Goal:
The goal of the Living Lessons^® campaign is to create a public and policy environment that recognizes and supports end-of-life care as an integral component of Canada's health care system.

In a supportive environment, health care policies, funding at governmental, community and individual levels, and increased public support will increase demand and access to hospice palliative care services in Canada.

This will be achieved through the collaborative and inclusive development and implementation of a long-term strategy that will leverage quality of life, health economic and psychosocial arguments. Focus needs to be on collective outcomes and the urgent need to foster and enhance societal change.

Background:
Hospice palliative care has existed in Canada for more than 30 years. Over that time the movement has grown and evolved. The expertise in the field has developed and matured and the need for specialized service has increased.

We have reached a turning point whereby the movement immediately requires enhanced recognition, increased funding and inclusion in the existing Canadian health care system. For many reasons including an aging population, increased need for services and patient empowerment, society is ready for systemic and social change. We must seize the opportunity.