Michael Lundberg
Michael Lundberg is the Executive Director for Virginia Health Information, a nonprofit health care information company serving businesses, consumers, providers and others. Through this venue, consumer guides, databases and analytical systems have been designed and made publicly available for use by those interested in making more informed health care decisions.
Michael has over two decades experience in developing health information for businesses, consumers, health care providers and policymakers. His experience includes collection and use of information from hospitals, health insurance plans, long-term care facilities, outpatient surgical centers and physicians. Health information produced has included consumer guides, efficiency reports, financial comparisons, health outcomes measurement, public health evaluation and support for pay-for-performance programs in multiple states.
For individuals living with complex, often chronic conditions, and their families, palliative care can provide relief from symptoms, improve satisfaction and outcomes, and help address critical mental and spiritual needs during difficult times. Now more than ever, there is growing recognition of the importance of palliative care services for individuals with serious illness, such as advance care planning, pain and symptom management, care coordination, and team-based, multi-disciplinary support. These services can help patients and families cope with the symptoms and stressors of disease, better anticipate and avoid crises, and reduce unnecessary and/or unwanted care. While this model is grounded in evidence that demonstrates improved quality of life, better outcomes, and reduced cost for patients, only a fraction of individuals who could benefit from palliative care receive it. 
