Commentary on: Gomes B, Calanzani N, Koffman J, et al. Is dying in hospital better than home in incurable cancer and what factors influence this? A population-based study. BMC Med 2015;13:235.

Implications for practice and research The findings of this study indicate that discussions about the patient's and relatives' preference relating to place of death, information about incurability and providing care at home including the possibility of respite for caregivers, increase the probability of home death.

Prospective studies including thorough multidimensional needs assessment are warranted along with randomised trials with interventions containing timely information of incurability and/or preference discussions. To read the full article, log in using your NHS OpenAthens details