This presentation will describe two randomised controlled studies which explore novel models of care for survivors in the post-treatment phase.

The first study (SurvivorCare) is a randomised controlled trial of a nurse-led intervention for bowel cancer survivors (Jefford M et al. Cancer Nurs 2011; 34(3): E1-10). The study is endorsed by PoCoG. Patients are recruited toward the end of potentially curative treatment and randomised to the SurvivorCare package plus usual care versus usual care alone. The package includes general survivorship information, a question prompt list, survivorship care plan, nurse-led end of treatment (EOT) session and three follow up phone calls (1, 3 and 7 weeks after EOT). The study aims to reduce distress and unmet need and improve quality if life (assessed 2 and 6 months after EOT). The study is currently enrolling patients in Victoria, NSW and Tasmania. 79 patients recruited to date (target 334).

ProCare is a randomised phase II study involving men with early-stage prostate cancer. This is a PC4 study with ANZUP. Men receive either 5 hospital-based visits or shared care, which substitutes 2 of the 5 hospital appointments with review by the patient’s general practitioner and adds an early GP visit. The intervention includes screening for unmet need and incorporates the use of survivorship care plans, a GP-based register and recall system, and education and support for both patients and GPs. This study will evaluate the potential of shared care to reduce psychological distress and unmet care needs. It is also looking at clinical process measures, including healthcare resource usage. It is currently recruiting in WA and Victoria. 23 patients recruited (revised sample size of 80).

The presentation will also briefly discuss the Victorian Cancer Survivorship Program, a Victorian Government-funded program evaluating novel strategies to support survivors who are completing potentially-curative treatments for cancer.