The intent of treatment can be defined as one of the following:

• curative
• anti-cancer therapy to improve quality of life and/or longevity without expectation of cure, or
• symptom palliation.

The morbidity and risks of treatment need to be balanced against the potential benefits. The advantages and disadvantages of each treatment and associated potential side effects should be discussed with the patient.

The lead clinician should discuss treatment intent and prognosis with the patient and their family/ carer before beginning treatment.

Advance care planning should be initiated with patients and their carers as there can be multiple benefits such as ensuring a person’s preferences are known and respected after the loss of decision-making capacity (AHMAC 2011).