The National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation (NPHI) joins the global hospice and palliative care community in mourning the passing of Dr. Balfour Mount, whose vision and compassion forever changed how we care for those at the end of life.
Dr. Mount — who coined the term “palliative care” and established the first hospital-based palliative care unit at Montreal’s Royal Victoria Hospital in 1975 — passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, at the unit that now bears his name. He was 86 years old.
Often called the father of palliative care in North America, Dr. Mount’s pioneering work brought dignity, comfort, and humanity to modern medicine. His leadership helped define a model of care that sees patients as whole people — addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Inspired by the work of Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern hospice movement, Dr. Mount introduced the principles of compassion, presence, and holistic care to the Canadian healthcare system and beyond. He dedicated his life to ensuring that people facing serious illness receive care that honors their humanity and eases their suffering.
“Dr. Mount’s life and work remind us of what truly matters in health care — compassion, connection, and respect for the dignity of every person,” said Tom Koutsoumpas, founder and CEO of NPHI. “His vision continues to guide our mission and inspires all of us to carry forward his legacy of healing through humanity.”
NPHI honors Dr. Mount’s extraordinary life and enduring impact — a legacy that continues to guide and inspire all who believe in compassionate, person-centered care.
Image by L’Ordre de Montréal.
