Accepting Palliatives or Searching for Cures

Your article on how doctors are learning to accept palliative care for terminally ill patients was interesting but somewhat misleading. Michael McCarthy does not make it clear that most patients who choose hospice care receive it in their own homes rather than in hospitals or other institutions.

Most people want the control, convenience, comfort and cost-effectiveness of being cared for at home. A great number of patients can receive fully effective pain control at home, along with the emotional and practical support that helps the entire family.

LOUISE TATE, Community Services Coordinator, Hospice in the Home, Glendale