NHS to see palliative care funding review

The NHS is to see its funding system for the provision of palliative care come under review by the coalition government.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley launched the new review at the International Carers Conference in Leeds, with the initiative designed to ensure that money spent on caring for those with terminal illnesses is spent correctly.

Among the recommendations of the review is the implementation of fairer and more transparent practices for all organisations involved, while a new focus on community-based care is also set to be prioritised.

Mr Lansley said moves such as this will provide a better standard of care for patients, as well as providing them with greater choice.

He added: “This review will look at how we better deploy the money we spend on palliative care ? we intend that whatever care patients choose will meet their needs and wishes.”

This comes after Mr Lansley last week detailed the key aspects of his vision for a revised NHS, including a “ring-fenced” public health budget and an enhanced role for public health directors.