Aim
Cancer-related lymphoedema is a lifelong complication of cancer treatment that is under-recognised in primary care. Delayed recognition can contribute to disease progression, recurrent cellulitis, avoidable morbidity and delayed referral for lymphoedema management. This project aimed to develop a nationally consistent, evidence-informed educational resource to assist Australian general practitioners (GPs) with the recognition, assessment and management of lymphoedema.
Methods
The resource was developed collaboratively by the Lymphoedema Association Australia, members of the Australasian Lymphology Association and HealthPathways Melbourne. An earlier Victorian GP guide was reviewed and updated with reference to international consensus documents, Australian clinical guidance and contemporary care pathways. Consumer, lymphoedema-practitioner (multidisciplinary backgrounds) and primary-care perspectives informed the revision process. Content was structured for rapid use during general practice consultations, with emphasis on concise clinical guidance, practical investigations, initial management and appropriate referral.
Results
The project produced a freely available four-page national GP education guide covering lymphoedema classification, risk factors, early signs, clinical assessment, investigations, management principles and access to treatment. Practical features include a diagnostic flowchart for chronic oedema, guidance regarding cellulitis, referral information and links to the National Lymphoedema Practitioners Register and state-based assistance schemes. The guide was accepted as a Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Accepted Clinical Resource and is distributed through consumer, professional and primary-care networks.
Conclusion
The national GP guide provides a concise and practical resource to support more consistent lymphoedema care within general practice and cancer survivorship. Its development demonstrates a collaborative education model combining consumer experience, specialist clinical expertise and primary-care pathway knowledge. Feedback suggests that the guide is being used by other health professionals too. Future priorities include broader dissemination, digital integration and formal evaluation of reach, use and educational impact.