The events surrounding the premature deaths of hundreds of patients at Gosport War Memorial Hospital are truly shocking. Public mistrust of doctors who care for patients nearing the end of their life could potentially add further tragedy to the situation. Consider the patient experiencing severe pain or shortness of breath in their final hours. If such mistrust meant that they did not receive the drugs that alleviate symptoms, it would be a major failing. Much of their suffering would be avoidable and unnecessary.
Thankfully, the events of several decades ago are much less likely to happen nowadays. NHS reporting systems, governance and safeguards are more robust than at any time, but more is required.
Setting appropriate care goals based on open communication is vital for