Health Services Research

Dr. Lunney is looking at how people die and the models for care that exist now and their relevance to how people die.

• The hospice model was created for cancer patients yet only 22% of Americans die of cancer (predictable model).


• Very few Americans die of sudden death which leaves the majority dying in a less predictable pattern.


• Different models of end of life care are needed. Medical decision making at the end of life is very complex.


• There is work that is needed beyond advanced directives. A new public understanding of end of life care and decision making processes are needed.


• Three quarters of the population is dependent on a personal care giver before they die
  to a full year before they die.