GPs contacting patients about ‘do not resuscitate’ forms

GPs are having end of life conversations with their patients because of concerns over a lack of intensive care beds during the coronavirus crisis.

Multiple GPs have told HSJ they are talking to patients who are older or in very high risk groups about signing “do not attempt to resuscitate” forms in case these patients were to go on to contract the virus.

Some practices have also sent letters to patients requesting they complete the forms, it is understood.

One leader of a primary care network, who asked not to be named, told HSJ: “Those in the severe at-risk group and those over 80 are being told they won’t necessarily be admitted to hospital if they catch coronavirus.”

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Source: HSJ, 1 April 2020