Definitions applicable to 105 CMR 130.1901

The following definitions apply to 105 CMR 130.1901: Appropriate Patient. A patient whose attending health care practitioner has: (1) diagnosed a terminal illness or condition that can reasonably be expected to cause the patient’s death within six months, whether or not treatment is provided, provided that the attending health care practitioner determines that discussion of the palliative care services is not contraindicated; or (2) determined that discussion of palliative care services is consistent with the patient’s clinical and other circumstances and the patient’s reasonably known wishes and beliefs. Attending Health Care Practitioner. A physician or nurse practitioner who has primary responsibility for the care and treatment of the patient within or on behalf of the hospital; provided that if more than one physician or nurse practitioner share that responsibility, each of them shall have a responsibility under 105 CMR 130.1901, unless there is an agreement to assign that responsibility to one such person. Hospice Care Services. Care provided by an entity licensed pursuant to 105 CMR 141.000: Licensure of Hospice Programs. Palliative Care. The attempt to prevent or relieve pain and suffering and to enhance the patient’s quality of life, and may include, but is not limited to, interdisciplinary end-of-life care and consultation with patients and family members.