Background : Clinical Psychology is a relatively new addition to specialist Palliative Care services. In 2019, a gaps/needs analysis identified the lack of Clinical Psychology services within Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District (ISLHD) community palliative care as a significant service gap. A Clinical Psychology position was established in the ISLHD in January 2023 which is job shared. The ISLHD has a population over 430,000 people across 5687 square kilometres and comprises regional, rural and remote areas. There is inequity across the District to clinical psychology services.

Aim: To establish and evaluate a Clinical Psychology service to maximise patient outcomes, enhance equity and access and promote a standardised and systematic approach in identifying and responding to psychological needs of patients and to provide support to the palliative care workforce. 

Method: Determining ‘value added’ to the service will be measured using surveys, PCOC outcome data and multi-disciplinary and complex case discussions. Data about referral reasons will be collated to identify if issues of equity and access are enhanced.

Results / Findings: Recommendations for a model of care will be presented informed by patient/carer and clinician surveys, PCOC outcome data, complex case studies and referral information on patient or carer profiles.

Conclusions/Lessons Learnt: This presentation will discuss the challenges and wisdoms six months on. Entering an already established service with varying knowledge on what Clinical Psychology can add takes time. It is imperative to listen to what the patients/carers and the staff are needing from a Clinical Psychologist in this specialist community setting. It is envisaged that the Clinical Psychologist will need to be flexible in their approach (home visits, virtual or telehealth, phone consults, joint visits) and bring their comprehensive skills in assessment and formulation while also being willing engage in specific training and to learn from clients and colleagues alike.