Marie Curie comments on the Parliamentary Health and Service Ombudsman’s new report into end of life care. It finds families are often not told clearly, or early enough, that their loved one is approaching the end of life.
Dr Sarah Holmes, Chief Medical Officer at Marie Curie and consultant in palliative medicine, said:
“Deeply troubling but not surprising, this report shows why too many families are left haunted by a loved one’s death. It highlights fragmented care, overstretched staff, and missed chances to recognise — or tell someone — they are dying.
“That is why Marie Curie is partnering with the NHS to embed teams in emergency departments and GP practices — identifying people earlier, supporting staff, and helping families get care plans and conversations sooner.
“These services must be rolled out nationwide. The UK Government’s Palliative and End of Life Care Modern Service Framework could help fix a broken system — but only with a transformation fund to drive joined-up care.
“Change is long overdue. Families saying goodbye do not get a second chance — and successive governments have had too many.”