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Care of dying varies widely across England

Care of dying varies widely across England
4 November 2013



Wide variation in the number of people dying at home has been uncovered by Public Health England (PHE). 
The latest figures show that although an increasing number of people are choosing to die at home in England, there was wide variation between local authorities.  
Almost 45% of people died at home or in a care home instead of in a hospital, the statistics show, compared to 38% in 2008. 
However, in some areas 69% of people were able to die at home, compared to 38% in others. 

Wide variation in the number of people dying at home has been uncovered by Public Health England (PHE). 
The latest figures show that although an increasing number of people are choosing to die at home in England, there was wide variation between local authorities.  
Almost 45% of people died at home or in a care home instead of in a hospital, the statistics show, compared to 38% in 2008. 
However, in some areas 69% of people were able to die at home, compared to 38% in others. 
PHE states the reasons for this are “complex”. 
Professor Julia Verne, clinical lead at PHE’s National End of Life Care Intelligence Network said: “ This year has seen another leap forward in our understanding and the statistics reflect progress by the NHS and the voluntary sector in supporting more patients to die in their place of choice. 
“However, we cannot be complacent, the report highlights some aspects of patient experience which must improve, especially the care of the dying in hospital.” 
The full report is available to view on the National End of Life Care Intelligence Network website.

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