What we can do to die well

As an introduction to both the art and science of palliative care, this book reflects the perspectives of one physician who has dedicated his career to this rapidly evolving field. The book links real stories of illness with practical advice, thereby delineating clinical practice in a way that reflects the daily concerns of clinicians.

Dying Well brings us to the homes and bedsides of families with whom Dr. Byock has worked, telling stories of love and reconciliation in the face of tragedy, pain, medical drama and conflict. Through the true stories of patients, he shows us that a lot of important emotional work can be accomplished in the final months, weeks and even days of life.

I get to meet some remarkable people. Bright, talented, and passionate, the folks I talk with draw me into their worlds and help me see life from new vantage points. Life is richer for meeting all of them, but every now and then someone I interview really makes an impression. Last fall I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Diane E. Meier, one of the foremost pioneers in the field of palliative care.

Students, teachers, physicians, and general readers from more than a dozen fields have found this book to be a reader-friendly, authoritative introduction to economic concepts applied to health and medical care. Fuchs provides clear explanations and memorable examples of the importance of the non-medical determinants of health, the dominant role of physicians in health care expenditures, the necessity of choices about health at the individual and societal levels and many other compelling themes.