Oral health and palliative care in the UK

Palliative oral care has demonstrated to be effective in alleviating oral symptoms, such as oral infections and pain. However research suggests it is not always adequate. This could be explained by lack of resources allocated, time pressures and inadequately trained staff. In addition the guidance and recommendations seem to be sparse and are often not evidence based, which generates confusion among care providers.

We are conducting a research study in order to comprehend the current state of affairs regarding palliative oral care in the UK. We aim to listen to patients, family members, care providers and healthcare professionals so we can understand what person-centred palliative oral care looks like and should look like.