A Randomized Study of Early Palliative Care

A Randomized Study of Early Palliative Care Integrated With Standard Oncology Care Versus Oncology Care Alone in Patients With Non-colorectal Gastrointestinal Malignancies.

The purpose of this research study is to find out whether it is better to introduce cancer patients to the palliative care team at a later date when there is a specific issue or problem or to introduce cancer patients to the palliative care team when first diagnosed before any specific issue or problem occurs.

The investigators will conduct a one-year randomized, controlled study to evaluate the impact of an early, integrated palliative care services. The intervention will include comprehensive palliative care services delivered in conjunction with standard oncology care and patient friendly materials for high risk oncology patients. The investigators primary clinical endpoint will be health related quality of life, specifically focusing on measures of anxiety, depression, and well-being.

Secondary personalized palliative care outcomes are expected to include:

• Reduced deviations from care plan as captured in the medical record compared to the group who did not receive early, integrated palliative care services
• Reduced hospital utilization compared to the group who did not receive early, integrated palliative care services

Inclusion Criteria:

• -Adults with newly diagnosed pancreatic, hepatocellular, esophageal, or stomach cancer
• Upcoming scheduled oncology clinic visit (2nd visit to the clinic) at Vanderbilt
• Ability to read and respond to questions in English
• Permission of oncology physician

Exclusion Criteria:

• -Receiving oncology care at non-Vanderbilt sites (to ensure appropriate follow-up)
• Participation in another clinical trial