IntroductionEvidence-based practice is the basis for necessary change in practice and function. This is a solid method for science-based, evidence-based change. Changes that are not supported by evidence are fragile, unscientific and subjective. These changes do not result in real changes over time because they cannot be proven in a more general population. The change described in this article concerns how early referral of terminally ill patients to a palliative care program leads to better outcomes. patient outcomes, particularly regarding pain management. PICO format questions will be used, accompanied by a supporting body of evidence regarding whether an early start in a palliative care program is helpful in controlling pain at the end of life. Available palliative care programs and associated options will be discussed as well as common concerns associated with early admission to palliative care. Methods used to pay for hospice care and how one qualifies to enter a hospice program will be explored. A documentary search will be carried out and its results detailed in the body of this article. Recent publications on the subject and associated issues such as moral and ethical issues as well as the question of change will be discussed. The planning, implementation and evaluation of the proposed change will be explored in this article. Identifying the Problem Pain management at the end of life is an important function of palliative care organizations. Families and patients are reassured that in the end, there are resources that allow for a comfortable death. Much of the quality of palliative care is determined by the patient's family members. In 2005, Brown Medical School conducted research on the...... middle of paper ......nce that is needed to provide primary care providers with the tools needed to provide care. It is statistically proven that early admission to palliative care is more effective in preventing pain at the end of life. This is cost effective and has been discussed as part of this project. A literature search using CINAHL has proven that in different locations, earlier admission actually results in pain management. Supporting our patients, colleagues, and our own practice through evidence-based practice techniques and science may be the most comforting evidence in this particular change proposal as it supports the PICO question: “At In terminally ill patients, does early admission to a palliative care program, compared to those admitted later, result in more effective pain control at the end of life? The evidence-based answer is yes.