Understanding and addressing geographical variation and intersectional inequalities in the use of hospital-based care in the last year of life
How we care for people towards the end of life is important to the dignity and quality of life of patients and families and to how well the health and social care system can cope with growing demands and pressure. Most people want to avoid hospitalisations in their last weeks and months of life, but hospitalisations are common and increase rapidly in the months before death.
This project aims to understand and reduce geographical and social differences in the use of hospital-based care during the last year of life. It will use linked health and mortality data to examine patterns of hospital use across England and examine drivers of inequalities.
Alongside the data analysis, we will work directly with South East London Integrated Care System to understand what information commissioners need to inform more equitable service delivery. Patients, carers and members of the public will also help shape the research and identify which measures matter most.
The findings will provide practical evidence for policymakers and NHS leaders to design more equitable end-of-life care, reduce avoidable hospital use, and improve support for people approaching the end of life and those close to them.
Aims
This project will generate practical evidence to reduce unfair geographical and social inequalities in hospital-based care during the last year of life. By analysing linked NHS data, working with South East London Integrated Care System, and involving patients and carers, it will identify areas where unplanned hospital use is highest, and provide insights into the causes of this variation. Findings will help policymakers and NHS commissioners target resources more fairly, improve community and palliative care services, and reduce pressure on hospitals.
Our Partners
Principal Investigator
Research Fellow
Funding
Amount: £159,311
Period: September 2025 - September 2027