Healthwatch Brighton & Hove has asked the local NHS CCG for a copy of the guidance issued to GPs on Covid-19 concerning care home residents. It has also asked for some comment and explanation about the context in which the advice has been provided.
Healthwatch says it is not making any judgements about the advice, although feels it is “at the very least … insensitive”.
Healthwatch Brighton & Hove chair Fran McCabe said: “These are difficult times and the NHS is making tough decisions every day with the sole intention of protecting everyone. However, what seem to be particularly challenging guidelines have been issued in a situation where the Care Quality Commission, the official regulator for health and care, is not undertaking routine inspections.
“The Health & Wellbeing Board in the city is not meeting as normal, nor is the Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee at Brighton and Hove Council; and organisations like local Healthwatch have focused our energies on Covid-19 response.
“Many Care Homes have restricted visiting and it would be a concern if some people are asked to consider completing ‘Do not resuscitate’ requests without normal access to the support of their family and friends.
“Established good practice is all about individual care planning where everyone’s unique circumstances and preferences are considered as paramount.
“This is not a time for rushing to criticise NHS decision makers, but it is important that local people are made aware and are involved in decisions that deeply impact some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”
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