Improving the care of dying patients in the community

Palliative care services provided by the primary sector have changed considerably over recent years and patients and carers want choice over end-of-life care. In response to this need, the Macmillan Gold Standards Framework has been introduced and funded by the NHS as its chosen end-of-life programme. Clinical experience suggests the framework provides a better quality of care, improves staff morale and patient satisfaction, and reduces hospital and hospice occupancy.