Developing Successful Models of Cancer Palliative Care Services

ObjectivesThis article describes successful institutionally based programs for providing high-quality palliative care to persons with cancer and their family members. Challenges and opportunities for program development are also described.Data SourcesPublished literature from 2000 to present describing concurrent oncology palliative care clinical trials, standards, and guidelines were reviewed.ConclusionClinical trials have shown feasibility and positive outcomes and formed the basis for consensus guidelines that support concurrent oncology palliative care models.Implications for Nursing PracticeOncology nurses should advocate for all patients with advanced cancer and their families to have access to concurrent oncology palliative care from the time of diagnosis with a life-limiting cancer.