§ Harry CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what(a)guidelines he has issued to health professionals relating to and (b)arrangements are in place for effective pain control for people sent home from hospital in their dying weeks; and if he will make a statement. [62327]
§ Ms BlearsHealth Service Circular 1998/115 (June 1998) enclosed copies of guidance produced by the national council for hospice and specialist palliative care
1081Wservices including 'Guidelines for Managing Cancer Pain in Adults' and 'Changing Gear—Guidelines for Managing the Last Days of Life in Adults'. The circular and booklets were sent to national health service trust chief executives, nurse executive directors and medical directors. A supportive and palliative care strategy is being developed under the NHS Cancer Plan to ensure best treatment and care from when cancer is first suspected and throughout the illness through to death and bereavement.