THE QUALITY OF CARE AND SYMPTOM CONTROL - THE EFFECTS ON THE TERMINALPHASE OF ALS MND/

The quality of care in the terminal phase of ALS/MND depends criticall y on the palliative care provided throughout the disease process. A re trospective review of 52 patients shows that patients with multiple sy mptoms and care needs can be cared for, and die, at home. To ensure th at the care of patients is co-ordinated and allows patients and family to be cared for where they wish, a team approach is required. A co-or dinated team approach, involving health care, social services and volu ntary groups, is described.