Should I incorporate the new 6 step end of life pathway into my end of life care plans?

Answered by Sheila Scott

Dear Naomi.

I think that the answer is a qualified yes.

I believe what you are referring to is: Ambitions for Palliative and End of Life Care (http://endoflifecareambitions.org.uk/) and you can find further information about the piece of work at http://www.cqc.org.uk/content/new-ambitions-end-life-care

In their press release CQC says: “Care homes are not given a rating for the quality of end of life care, but as part of each inspection, our inspectors always ask a specific question about care in the last days of life.”

These are the six principles spelt out in the report:

• Each person is seen as an individual
• Each person gets fair access to care
• Maximising comfort and wellbeing
• Care is coordinated
• All staff are prepared to care
• Each community is prepared to help

These principles are intended to be a framework in localities to improve an integrated service but you can look to see whether or not you can use the six steps to demonstrate particularly how you are working with other services to ensure an integrated care plan.

I am sure that your care plans include these principles already but once you have reviewed your care plans you can make reference to having done this.

Best wishes.

Sheila