Using National Data Sets to Influence and Support National Health Strategy: Why Should We Focus on Addressing Inequalities and Unwarranted Variation

The National End of Life Care Intelligence Network, led by Professor Julia Verne since 2010, has utilized national data on death, hospital admissions, and primary care to improve palliative care in England over 14 years. This effort has expanded beyond cancer patients to include those with respiratory, neurological, severe mental health conditions, liver disease, and dementia. The data has revealed disparities, showing that the poorest patients and those from non-white ethnicities are less likely to receive palliative care, with significant subregional differences. Despite these challenges, time trend data indicates improvements in palliative care over time. Professor Verne's work emphasizes the importance of national data in identifying challenges and driving change in health strategies.