Synopsis
To determine whether early referral to palliative care improves quality of life, overall survival and the use of health care resources in patients with recently diagnosed, advanced thoracic malignancies.
Research Overview
Lung cancer, both NSCLC and SCLC and malignant pleural mesothelioma remains a leading cause of cancer related morbidity and mortality. Referring patients to palliative care early, offers great promise for improving the quality and cost effectiveness of care in this setting. Previous studies have identified deficiencies in key areas of care such as advance care planning, attending to caregiver needs, defining goals of care and coordination of care. There is strong evidence to suggest that early referral to palliative care alongside standard oncology care in the ambulatory setting can improve quality of life, patient and carer mood, healthcare resources utilization and less use of aggressive therapies in the last few months of life.
Key Contact
Name: Centre for Palliative Care
Email: svhm.CPCtrials@svha.org.au
Project Team
- Prof Jennifer Philip
- A/Prof Gavin Wright
- Ass Prof Jennifer Weil
- Dr Jo-An Seah
- Dr Laura Booth
- Dr Maziar Fahandej
- Jane Mack
- Indy Khera
- Di Saward
Sponsor
NHMRC/Australasian Lung Cancer Trials Group/University of Sydney/PaCCSC