Testing a new framework (CORD) for facilitating active follow-up after diagnosis

A recent study from the group aims to develop a better understanding of how people diagnosed with cancer wish to be supported in primary care. The findings may be used to devise tailored, personalised care and support services to improving the quality of care and life for cancer survivors. Such care starting from the end of the initial treatment has the potential to make a difference to the lives of all cancer survivors, from very early in their illness, especially if they have progressive disease.
Researchers: Scott Murray
Read more (pdf).

Testing a holistic needs assessment questionnaire (SPARC) in a supportive & palliative service

MacPaCC member Bill Noble has been carrying out a study with patients referred for supportive or palliative care, to see if using the SPARC questionnaire improves their care. The findings of this feasibility study will be useful to people designing future randomised controlled trials.
Researcher: Bill Noble
Read more (pdf).
See Bill talking about SPARC.

Evaluating the Gold Standards Framework for end-of-life care

When it was created by Macmillan in 2003, MacPaCC's initial programme of work was focused on developing evidence about how the Gold Standards Framework (GSF) for end-of-life care was being implemented in general practices in the UK. Practices that sign up to the GSF agree to follow certain processes, such as keeping a register of people diagnosed with cancer in their area and holding regular meetings to plan their care.

In the past cancer was mainly associated with hospital treatment, but with growing numbers of people surviving and living with cancer, the health service is expanding and improving the supportive care it provides in the community. Such care depends not only on good-quality communication between health professionals and people affected by cancer, but also on good organisation and processes, especially in general practices.

The Gold Standards Framework (GSF) is a systematic evidence-based approach to optimising the care for patients nearing the end of life delivered by generalist providers. (GSF website)