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The issue of assisted dying is a contentious topic, with hospices being at the heart of the debate. Angelina Blair, a nurse supporting terminally ill patients to die in their own homes, witnesses the final moments of people’s lives firsthand. She emphasizes the importance of providing end-of-life care that respects the wishes of the patients and their families. Working at Rowcroft Hospice in Torquay, Devon, Angelina is dedicated to ensuring patients receive the care they desire.
The proposed bill in England and Wales would grant terminally ill adults with six months or less to live the right to medically end their lives. Advocates argue that this would give patients the autonomy to choose how they pass away. However, opponents believe that the focus should be on improving palliative care services to ensure a comfortable and dignified death. At Rowcroft hospice, there is uncertainty among staff about the potential impact of legalized assisted dying on their services and concerns regarding funding shortages.
Hospices, such as Rowcroft, rely heavily on charity funding to provide care for patients. With the increase in the death rate projected for the coming years, there are growing concerns about the sustainability of hospice services. The government has allocated additional funds to adult hospices in England to support their operations. Mark Hawkins, Rowcroft’s chief executive, questions whether the government should enhance funding for end-of-life care to guarantee quality service for all individuals.
Within hospices, there is a delicate balance between respecting a patient’s right to choose and providing comprehensive palliative care. Jabez Petherick, a patient with incurable kidney cancer, acknowledges the positive impact of hospice care on his quality of life. Staff members like Jo Jacobs observe the shifting views of patients on assisted dying, emphasizing the importance of allowing patients to make informed choices. Vicky Bartlett, the director of patient care at Rowcroft, stresses the need for patients to have options when it comes to their end-of-life decisions
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