4.3 Palliative care
Early referral to palliative care can improve the quality of life for people with cancer (Haines 2011; Temel et al. 2010; Zimmermann et al. 2014). Given the poor prognosis of high-grade glioma, all patients should have a palliative care approach introduced to care. Referral to a palliative care specialist and interdisciplinary palliative care team is required.
The lead clinician should ensure patients receive timely and appropriate referral to palliative care services. Emphasise the value of palliative care in improving symptom management and quality of life to patients and their carers.
The ‘Dying to Talk’ resource may help health professionals when initiating discussions with patients about future care needs (see ‘More information’). Ensure that carers and families receive information, support and guidance about their role in palliative care (Palliative Care Australia 2018).
Patients, with support from their family or carer and treating team, should be encouraged to consider appointing a substitute decision-maker and to complete an advance care directive.
Refer to Step 6 for a more detailed description of managing patients with recurrent or progressive disease.
These online resources are useful: