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NEWS: Roger Dobson Fewer than one in 10 people will die at home by 2030, study predicts BMJ 2008; 336: 295-a [Full text]

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The intimacy of dying

Lukas A Holzer   (9 February 2008)

The intimacy of dying 9 February 2008
Lukas A Holzer, medical student Medical University of Vienna Send response to journal: Re: The intimacy of dying	The medicalisation of dying is increasing which is shown in the study Gomes and Higginson [1]. This will lead to structural changes in hospitals and other medical institutions to handle the future situation. A point which must not be neglected regarding dying however is the patient and his or her psyche. Dying is a very personal and intimate moment for each person and his or her relatives. Medical surroundings would be needed that allow a high quality of life for these last hours and are appropriate for a human’s dignity. Such adaptations would definitely be beneficial for dying people, relatives and furthermore for hospital staff. References 1. Gomes B, Higginson IJ. Where people die (1974--2030): past trends, future projections and implications for care. Palliat Med. 2008; 22: 33-41. Competing interests: None declared