End-of-Life Travel: A Bucket List Desire for Patients With Life-Limiting Illnesses.

Patients at end of life often express a desire to travel, and many have requests that go unfulfilled. Studies show that a majority of patients have a desire to return to their place of birth to die when presented with the option, yet goals-of-care conversations do not routinely include travel desires for numerous reasons. Patients faced with a life-limiting illness are at greater risk of depression, withdrawal, denial, anger, and feelings of helplessness. When palliative care teams assist patients with end-of-life travel, they empower them with a greater sense of control over the dying process. Improving goals-of-care conversations regarding medical travel begins with well-developed communication skills and a knowledge of available options. This article primarily focuses on the recommendation of medical travel as a goals-of-care comfort measure for the palliative care patient.

Healthcare Benefits for Veterans: What Home Care Clinicians Need to Know.

As the world prepares for an increasingly aging population with chronic debilitating diseases, the demand for home healthcare services is increasing. As such, home healthcare clinicians face increased pressure to find resources and continuing support for patients. One area that may be underutilized is accessing Veteran benefits. Home healthcare clinicians care for Veterans every day, and knowing what benefits are available and how to access those benefits can help some Veterans who may be struggling with healthcare needs. Home healthcare clinicians may find understanding Veteran's health benefits intimidating and may falsely assume that a Veteran is aware of his or her benefits. Staying current on home healthcare benefits can be challenging and this article is intended to provide an overview of current and relevant information regarding Veteran health benefits.