This Consensus Statement contains nine guiding principles and 10 essential elements for the delivery of safe and high-quality end-of-life care. Elements 1–5 relate to the way in which end-of-life care should be approached and delivered. Elements 6–10 relate to structural and organisational prerequisites for the effective delivery of safe and high-quality end-of-life care.

This literature review provides information about quality and safety in end-of-life care beyond hospitals with a particular focus on Australians living in residential aged care or receiving aged care services in the community. There is also a supplement relating to care during the pandemic. 

The review sought to:

• Understand best practice processes for end-of-life care and organisational prerequisites for implementation and delivery in the Australian health context
• Recognise new and emerging issues related to delivery of excellent end-of-life care
• Identify end-of-life care delivery considerations during a pandemic.

Supporting the delivery of excellent end-of-life care is a part of delivering comprehensive care that aligns with the patient’s expressed goals of care and healthcare needs, considers the impact of the patient’s health issues on their life and wellbeing, and is clinically appropriate.

It is important that care is provided continuously and collaboratively in line with their diagnoses and agreed goals of care. Their comprehensive care plan should reflect their individual preferences.

This fact sheet focuses on specific considerations for providing care in the last days of life.

This fact sheet focuses on issues for planning end-of-life care.