Statements of definition: Cancer Supportive Care

What Supportive care is a core, evidence-based component of comprehensive patient-centred cancer care Who and When and Where The delivery of supportive care requires a multi-disciplinary approach, in the screening, assessment, management, intervention and treatment of the side-effects, symptoms and needs of cancer patients, carers and family. Supportive care is delivered in all healthcare settings, at all steps of the cancer pathway from diagnosis to survivorship and end of life Why Importantly, the provision of supportive care is designed to: empower and enhance decision-making; maximise tolerance and benefit from therapy; alleviate symptoms of cancer and side-effects of treatment; optimise functional autonomy, wellness and health outcomes; and improve coping, self-care and dignity