NHS end-of-life care in England ‘variable and inequitable’ says watchdog
End-of-life care across the NHS in England is “variable and inequitable” and “often falls below expectations”, according to the Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch (HSIB).
HSIB found care for patients who are dying is “inconsistent” across England, despite a national strategy for proceedings being in place since 2008.
The report highlighted “concerns about the limitations of the delivery of palliative and end-of-life care” which are more noticeable in deprived areas.
Services were found to not always be able to deliver individualised care, and varied due to the likes of staff shortages and the availability of charitable donations.
Nick Woodier, a national investigator at the HSIB, said: “Conversations about death and end-of-life care are challenging and emotive but it is crucial that health and care professionals can discuss needs and expectations with their patients and families.
“They should be supported by a system that provides continuity of care, reassurance and dignity at what is sometimes a very distressing time.”
Source: The Guardian, 13 July 2023