This project builds on the success of the previously developed Palliative Care Assessment Toolkit (PCAT) funded by ARIIA in 2023 by transforming it into an AI-driven, web-based application to support aged care clinicians in the early identification and management of residents requiring palliative care. The original PCAT demonstrated significant improvements in care coordination, symptom management, and workforce confidence, leading to better palliative care outcomes.
The proposed project will enhance its impact by digitalizing the toolkit and integrating AI-driven decision support to streamline assessments and improve efficiency. The digital PCAT will incorporate established palliative care assessment frameworks, including SPICT™ and Palliative Care Needs Rounds, ensuring standardized, evidence-based decision-making. The tool will be particularly beneficial for rural and regional aged care facilities, where access to specialist palliative care is limited and lack of access to skilled workforce. Following a structured implementation approach, the project will include co-design with stakeholders, pilot testing, staff training, and rigorous evaluation through pre- and post-testing.
“The digital toolkit aims to address a key challenges faced by aged care providers, the inefficiency of current palliative care assessment tools, which are often time intensive and administratively burdensome,” Professor Khalil said. “Digital solutions are critical to overcoming workforce limitations and ensuring quality, timely and high-quality palliative care.”