Do you need a referral for home-based cancer care?

Your oncology, palliative medicine or primary-care team can identify suitable support and send the clinical information needed for safe care at home. Some providers also accept enquiries from patients or families, but they may still request a medical assessment before visits begin.

Home care is tailored to need. It may involve symptom assessment, medicine support, wound care, help with mobility, nursing procedures, rehabilitation or palliative support. It can complement clinic treatment rather than replace the oncology team.

The first assessment should clarify what can be delivered safely in the home, which clinician remains responsible for prescriptions and treatment decisions, and how the home team communicates with the cancer centre.

Tell your clinical team which tasks are becoming difficult and describe the home environment, mobility needs, equipment already available and support from family or carers. This helps match the service to practical needs.

Before accepting care, ask what visits cover, how medicines and supplies are organised, who provides help outside scheduled visits, and which number to use after hours. Keep an up-to-date medicine list and the oncology unit's contact details where carers can find them.

Use the urgent contact plan for fever, worsening pain, repeated vomiting, new confusion, a sudden decline in mobility or symptoms that cannot be controlled with the agreed medicines. The home-care team can advise whether an in-person assessment is required.

Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, uncontrolled bleeding, a seizure or inability to wake the person normally. Do not wait for the next home visit when there is an immediate threat to safety.

Ask which service fits your current needs, who will coordinate it, whether the home team can access your treatment plan, what equipment is required, how carers will be taught specific tasks, and what changes should trigger a same-day call.