50-12-201. Legislative findings -- purpose. (1) The legislature finds that:

(a) individuals who are experiencing complex, chronic health issues that affect their quality of life should be offered palliative care as a treatment option;

(b) palliative care is appropriate at any age and any stage of a disease and can be provided in conjunction with curative treatments; and

(c) palliative care includes but is not limited to discussions of an individual's treatment goals and options, including, when appropriate, discussion of comprehensive pain and symptom management and of hospice care.

(2) It is the purpose of this part to ensure that individuals who could benefit from palliative care are made aware of their options through a consumer education program and an informed workforce trained in the benefits of palliative care.