Its essential message is this: The dying have needs that go beyond pain palliation and even spiritual comfort, say the authors, two hospice nurses.

FORBES: Final Gifts

Komen for the Cure, which is the world's largest breast cancer organization, condemned the task force's recommendation and have been united in their message that women can decrease their chances of dying from the disease by beginning annual mammograms at 40.

CNN: After the mammogram storm, what should women do?

Despite our very different backgrounds and perspective, we all ended up delivering a similar message: It is essential that everyone involved with a dying patient communicate.

FORBES: The Final Transition: End of Life Care

The British Medical Association has also rejected calls for it to soften its opposition to assisted dying, warning last year that any change in the profession's position would send the wrong message.

BBC: Lord Falconer to press on assisted dying law