Virtual Versus In-Person Approaches

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of two models of early palliative care delivery for adults with cancer: virtual care provided through scheduled video consultations and standard in-person clinic visits. Early palliative care aims to improve quality of life, manage symptoms, and support patients and families throughout the course of serious illness. Although in-person services are well established, access barriers may limit their use, and virtual care may offer a feasible alternative.

Participants are randomly assigned to receive either virtual early palliative care or in-person early palliative care. Both models include structured assessments of physical and psychological symptoms, communication and decision-making support, and routine follow-up with a palliative care specialist. Outcomes are assessed at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Primary and secondary outcomes include quality of life, symptom burden, psychological distress, patient satisfaction, and healthcare utilization.

The purpose of the study is to determine whether virtual early palliative care delivers outcomes comparable to those of traditional in-person care. The results may inform future models of palliative care delivery by identifying approaches that improve accessibility while maintaining high-quality patient support.