Stepped-care model of psychosocial oncology

Improving Access to Mental Health Support in Cancer Care

Through the WCMICS Grants Program (Innovation & Improvement stream), this project will develop a digitally-enhanced, stepped-care model of psychosocial oncology aimed at improving access to mental health support for people affected by cancer.

Led by the Psychosocial Oncology team at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, in partnership with the Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, this pilot integrates the evidence-based digital platform iCanADAPT into routine care. The goal is to reduce barriers to access—especially for those in regional areas or experiencing system-level inequities—while embedding psychological support as a standard component of cancer care.

Now in its implementation phase, the project will assess feasibility, clinical utility, and user experience across multiple settings.

This work responds directly to national and state priorities to address the mental health needs of people with cancer—aligning with the Australian Cancer Plan and Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System. If successful, this model could be scaled more broadly across the cancer care system.