Advance care planning is important for all patients with a cancer diagnosis but especially those with advanced disease. Where appropriate, patients, their family or carer should be encouraged to think and talk about their healthcare values and preferences and consider developing an advance care directive to convey their preferences for future health care (Australian Government Department of Health 2021a). The lead oncologist, haematologist, palliative care team or general practitioner are best placed to assist with a CAYA-centred approach and assist in developing an advance care directive.

More information

Refer to section 4.3 ‘More information’ for links to resources.

Refer patients and carers to Advance Care Planning Australia  or to the Advance Care Planning National Phone Advisory Service on 1300 208 582.

Refer patients, their family or carer to the Thinking ahead framework  or call (03) 9345 5522.