PIERRE, South Dakota – February 23, 2024 -- The South Dakota Legislature today approved legislation that will help facilitate improved access to palliative care. Once signed by Gov. Kristi Noem, this bill will allow the state’s healthcare providers to better serve those who are in need of this crucial service.
Palliative care aims to provide better quality of life for cancer patients, those with other chronic diseases and their families by focusing on relieving the pain, stress and other symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment. South Dakota Senate Bill 147 adds the definition to statute, allowing for improved access to and reimbursement for palliative care services as well as providing for the distribution of education materials on palliative care.
The bill was supported by the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations and the South Dakota Hospital Association and will play a significant role in improving the delivery of palliative care services. Palliative care could greatly benefit South Dakota families and is appropriate at any age or stage of illness and can be delivered along with curative treatment.
The following can be attributed to Ben Hanson, South Dakota Government Relations Director at the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN): “All of South Dakota faces a workforce shortage, healthcare especially so. The passage of this definition of palliative care and the potential for improved reimbursement for providers and better access to these important services is a victory for the state. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network is grateful to the South Dakota Legislature for taking this important step forward.”
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.