Public health is the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts of society. There are many reasons why palliative care is now a significant public health issue. Death follows a period of chronic or progressing illness, where symptom control and support are needed. This has a significant effect on our health care resources; 10% to 12% of total health care costs are spent on the end of life. Across the globe, populations are aging, such that by 2020 in many countries almost 1 in 3 people will be aged 65 years or more. After reaching the age of 65, people now live an average of another 12 to 22 years. Cost-effective ways to provide care are needed, and public health has a role in ensuring equity of access to effective care and prevention of suffering and problems during bereavement.