A new digital resource helps guide end-of-life conversations
30 September 2025
Discussing death and dying is one of the hardest parts of cancer care for patients, families and clinicians alike.
A digital resource, co-developed by patients, carers and clinicians from Peter Mac, is available to support these conversations and help ensure people receive care that aligns with their values and wishes.
The resource called Preparing for end-of-life, was shaped through extensive consultation with patients, carers (including bereaved carers) and health professionals.
It brings together clear, evidence-based information and lived-experience insights to help patients and families prepare, while also providing clinicians with a practical tool to guide discussions.
Professor Brian Le, Medical Director of the Integrated Palliative Care Service at Peter Mac, said the resource has the potential to make a real difference with each topic providing a table of conversation starters and possible questions to ask.
“We know that patients and families want honest, compassionate conversations about what to expect as end of life nears,” Dr Le said.
“This resource was designed with them, not just for them. It’s clear, calm and holistic, giving patients, families and even clinicians a way to start those vital conversations with confidence.”
Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Patients and carers described the resource as “non-threatening” and “valuable,” while clinicians reported it could help them feel more comfortable initiating discussions that are often delayed or avoided.
The resource has been promoted through postcards and staff forums, with uptake steadily growing over the past 14 months. Topics such as What happens at the end and End-of-life care are among the most accessed, reflecting the real need for this type of information.
Professor Le encouraged doctors, nurses and allied health staff to actively use the resource in their practice.
“It’s not about having all the answers it’s about opening the door to a conversation that patients and families are often waiting for us to begin,” he said.
“By sharing this resource, we can make those conversations less daunting and more meaningful.”
Catherine Devereux, who leads the research team behind the project, said they are now planning to formally evaluate the impact of the resource, but ongoing promotion and clinical uptake are seen as critical to ensuring its value is fully realised.
Clinicians are invited to access and share the Preparing for end-of-life webpages to support patients, families and colleagues in navigating this important stage of care.