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Table 2 Key components of STEP Care intervention

From: A randomised phase II trial to examine feasibility of standardised, early palliative (STEP) care for patients with advanced cancer and their families [ACTRN12617000534381]: a research protocol

1. Identification of patients for eligibility at standardised transitions in the illness course

2. Initial hospital based palliative care consultation, addressing:

 (a) Review of underlying disease management

 (b) Screening for symptom distress

 (c) Screening for psychological distress

 (d) Review of informal social supports

 (e) Review of formal community supports, including local community palliative care

 (f) Providing information

 (g) Advance care planning discussions

 (h) Involvement of family carer, including enquiry of concerns, needs for information

3. Regular follow-up, at minimum monthly for minimum of 3 months

4. Case conference with the general practitioner within 28 days, addressing

 (a) Current and anticipated problems

 (b) Recommended management and therapies

 (c) Designation of responsibility for different aspects of care