ABSTRACT
Healthcare is driven and supported by public policy, governmental regulations, accreditation guidelines, and payment structures. In order to optimize access to quality palliative care, the therapist must endeavor to advocate for improvements in these areas, each of which will be discussed in this chapter. On an individual patient level, this may include providing evidence-based care using valid, reliable outcome measures and professional clinical documentation that meets documentation standards. The therapist may also need to advocate for their patient and their disciplines’ involvement within their individual area of practice in their own institution. To impact more patients and improve policies at a regional or national level, involvement in professional associations and collaborating with key governmental stakeholders may be necessary. Finally, supporting and conducting research will further establish proof of the effectiveness and safety of physical activity for those facing a terminal illness. By these means therapist services will be accessible, fair, and adequately supported for all individuals.
