Cluster Quality of Life

To improve quality of life during and after cancer, it is important that patients (and their support network) have access to a top-quality range of psychosocial care. Extra investments are made in tracks to enhance the accessibility and quality of psychosocial and palliative care.

Tracks

Communication and shared decision making

In communication and shared decision making, it is generally considered important to foster choice awareness, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of relevant treatment options, and to take into account patient views and preferences. In this important and active field of research, we strive to proactively involve underserved groups (e.g., those who are not included in research as much as one would expect based on population estimates; those with high healthcare burden that is not matched by the volume of research designed for the group; those for whom current healthcare interventions are not a good fit based on response or engagement). 

In close collaboration with the field, we will set out a targeted funding strategy for this track in 2024/25. 

Palliative interventions

In palliative care, disease burden and support needs can be high. We strive to stimulate research aimed at providing a solid evidence-base for palliative care interventions, taking into account what patients and their families want and need. 

In 2022, we opened a theme call for research into symptom management, and funded 3 projects. In 2023, a theme call launched to focus on enhancing diversity and inclusion in palliative care. Steps for the longer term targeted funding strategy are currently being defined in collaboration with the field.