Hospitals ‘denying patients dignity in death’

THE vast majority of hospitals in Ireland are unable to offer suitable facilities to allow patients to die with proper dignity, according to a new report.

The study entitled Design and Dignity — A Baseline Review is the first review of the facilities and services offered by community and acute hospitals to dying patients and their families.

It is estimated that 60% of Irish people die in hospitals with four out of 10 people dying in acute hospitals.