End-of-Life Care for Asians and Latinos

In the preceding report, we described how many African-Americans lack access to basic comfort care at the end of life—hospice and palliative services that can ease pain and suffering during the dying process. The obstacles are even greater for Asians, Latinos, and other ethnic minorities. Language barriers and cultural traditions can inhibit awareness of end-of-life options, and are often compounded by poverty and lack of education. As JoAnn Mar reports, the barriers faced by immigrants of color can have devastating consequences.