Timely referral to palliative care can improve the quality of life and in some cases may be associated with survival benefits. The treatment team should emphasise the value of palliative care in improving symptom management and quality of life to patients and their carers. Refer to section 4.3 for more detailed information.

The lead clinician should ensure timely and appropriate referral to palliative care services. Referral to palliative care services should be based on the patient’s need and potential for benefit, not prognosis.

More information

Refer to the end of section 4.3 ‘Palliative care’ for links to resources.