The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the communication and care coordinator (CCC) model in a national cancer institute and assess the utility of the model in facilitating serious illness communication (SIC) and care for patients with cancer.
The study aims are:
* To assess the effectiveness of the CCC model in improving patient outcomes. * To assess the effectiveness of the CCC model in increasing rates of SIC and advance care planning (ACP) record documentation. * To assess the acceptability of the CCC model to patients and clinicians. * To evaluate the feasibility of implementing a CCC model in oncology care.
Researchers will compare results from the CCC intervention arm and usual care arm, to see if the CCC model can help improve patient outcomes and facilitate SIC between patients and clinicians.
Patient participants will:
* Follow the assignment of their clinician, who will be assigned randomly to either the usual care group or the intervention group. * Be assigned a CCC and receive 6 CCC sessions over the course of 3 months (if assigned to CCC intervention arm). * Complete 3 study assessment visits at baseline, Week 6, and 3 months * Be invited to a one-time interview to share their study experience (optional, if selected and if in CCC intervention arm).
Aged 21 and above
Diagnosed with (a) advanced cancer (stage 3 or 4) or (b) non-advanced cancer, but at high risk of recurrence
Able to speak English or Chinese, irrespective of race
Oncologists who are at least of designation of associate consultant and above in NCCS
Confused/not able to sign informed consent
Diagnosed with untreated hearing or visual loss or psychiatric illness
Overseas/not practising in Singapore for a significant amount of time