Earlier Identification Tools

Identifying palliative care needs earlier in the course of disease significantly contributes to positive patient, family and system outcomes. 

This document supports providers and system-level leadership in earlier identification of patients who would benefit from palliative care. The tools recommended in this document can:

  • help providers determine when to introduce palliative care
  • be integrated into all settings of care
  • be integrated into digital platforms that support patient care
  • help to promote the scale and spread of earlier palliative care

Last Updated: June 21, 2025