Palliative care in Denmark

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care
• Healthcare Policy
• Social Support

Background:

• Recent increase in palliative care efforts in Denmark.
• Introduction of numerous initiatives to enhance supportive and palliative care.
• Existing hospital services include symptom control and open admission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe recent palliative care initiatives in Denmark.
• To outline future plans for palliative care development.
• To inform stakeholders about advancements in patient care.

Main Methods:

• Review of current palliative care services and policies in Denmark.
• Description of legislative changes supporting home-based end-of-life care.
• Overview of established hospice facilities.

Main Results:

• Hospitals provide symptom control and open admission.
• New legislation allows relatives income-protected leave for home care.
• Three non-statutory hospices are operational.

Conclusions:

• Denmark has significantly advanced its palliative care framework.
• Legislative and service developments aim to improve patient and family support.
• Future plans are in place to further enhance palliative care provision.