As a physician who has followed the issue of “end of life” pathways closely over the last 15 years, the contents of the report “When End-of-Life Care Goes Wrong” (WELCGW) – published on March 2 by the UK Lords and Commons Family and Child Protection Group – are not a surprise. However, they are tangible proof that end-of-life pathways have infiltrated back into the health system and are widespread throughout the NHS, and are tainting the good name of palliative care.
Six hundred families have come together as a clear statement that these end-of-life pathways are assailing families and leaving them bereaved and without closure. How did this situation come about?
