Theory and practice in the management of the dying patient have moved
forward in the past two decades. However, the author believes the benefits
of this progress have not reached a large segment of the population of
dying patients--those individuals who have a higher level of
psychopathology or are from a lower socioeconomic group. Obstacles in the
treatment of such patients are described and illustrated by case histories;
the author makes specific recommendations related to the care of these more
difficult cases.Abstract Teaser