For more than 25 years, the Academy has dedicated itself to expanding access of patients and families to high quality palliative care, and advancing the discipline of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, through professional education and training, development of a specialist workforce, support for clinical practice standards, research and public policy. Membership is available to physicians specializing in hospice and palliative medicine, nurses and other health care providers who are committed to improving the quality of life of patients and families facing serious illness.