The patient’s general practitioner should consider an individualised supportive care assessment where appropriate to identify the needs of an individual, their carer and family. Refer to appropriate support services as required. See validated screening tools mentioned in Principle 4 ‘Supportive care’.

A number of specific needs may arise for patients and carers at this time:

• assistance for dealing with the emotional distress and/or anger of dealing with a potential cancer diagnosis, anxiety/depression, interpersonal problems and adjustment difficulties
• management of physical symptoms as needed and advised by the specialist
• encouragement and support to increase levels of exercise (Cormie et 2018; Hayes et al. 2019).

For additional information on supportive care and needs that may arise for different population groups, see Appendices A, B and C.

The general practitioner is responsible for:

• providing patients with information that clearly describes to whom they are being referred, the reason for referral and the expected timeframes for appointments
• requesting that patients notify them if the specialist has not been in contact within the expected timeframe
• considering referral options for patients living rurally or remotely without delaying the referral
• supporting patients and carers while waiting for the specialist appointment and/or diagnosis confirmation (Camp Quality 1300 662 267, Cancer Council 13 11 20, Canteen 1800 835 932, Leukaemia Foundation 1800 953 081 and Redkite 1800 733 548 are available to act as a point of information and reassurance during the anxious period of awaiting further diagnostic information).

More information

Refer to Principle 6 ‘Communication’ for communication skills training programs and resources.