Service Models

Our research group develops and evaluates innovative service models to improve palliative care delivery across different healthcare settings and populations. These evidence-based approaches address gaps in care while ensuring timely access to specialized services.

CARE PLUS

Care Plus is a multi-site study implementing early palliative care for people with advanced cancer. Using a mixed-methods, stepped wedge approach across three cancer treatment centers, it aims to reduce clinical practice variation and ensure timely, high-quality care delivery.

Care Plus Program

CARE PLUS EXTEND

Building on the success of the initial Care Plus program, Care Plus Extend broadens the reach of specialized palliative care services to more cancer types and regional areas throughout Victoria.

This expansion will be available to people with sarcoma, lung and colon cancer at three metropolitan hospitals who care for patients across Victoria, along with selected regional centres around Victoria. Funded by the VCCC and in collaboration with clinical partners, the study is focused on access and equity for achieving best care of regionally based people.

CARE PLUS BRAIN

Care Plus Brain delivers early palliative care to high-grade glioma patients and their carers, offering telehealth support across region Victoria and implementing care through three major hospitals from 2024-2027. Care Plus Brain is supported by the Victorian Government.

NATIONAL PANCREATIC CANCER ROADMAP

Developing pathways to pain management and early palliative care for people with pancreatic cancer

Funded by Cancer Australia, this project sought to develop evidence and community responsive web-based pathways to enable access for people with pancreatic cancer to specialist pain management and early palliative care. Drawing upon extensive reviews, community and expert consultation, the pathways are supported by clinical guidance, as well as tailored education for clinicians and information for patients about interventional pain management. The strategies to enact and monitor successful implementation are detailed including existing digital technology strategies as well as those future areas for research and development.

UNDERSERVED POPULATIONS

PRISONS

We research and implement strategies to improve end-of-life care for the aging prison population, many of whom face terminal illnesses in facilities not designed for palliative needs. Our mixed-methods approach identifies barriers and explores opportunities for better care delivery, translating findings into practical interventions with clinical partners.

FIRST NATIONS

We partner with First Nations communities to provide culturally appropriate palliative care. This includes establishing dedicated Cancer Care Coordinator roles at major hospitals to bridge cultural and clinical gaps, and integrating Indigenous knowledge and healing practices into care delivery. We collaborate closely with community organizations and policy developers to create sustainable, First Nations-led care pathways.

NON-MALIGNANT DISEASE

Palliative care for non-malignant diseases often presents unique challenges due to unpredictable illness trajectories and varying care needs. The Palliative Nexus Research Group is dedicated to developing and evaluating innovative models of care to ensure timely and appropriate palliative support for patients living with conditions such as advanced heart failure, chronic respiratory disease, and neurological conditions.