Table 2 The key points of difference between the intervention groups and usual care control group

1. When nutrition services commence (immediately post-diagnosis versus ~ 12 week delay).

2. The mechanism of access (universal vs referral-based).

3. The mode of service delivery (non face-to-face vs face-to-face).

4. The regularity of service provision (at least fortnightly versus ad hoc, “as required” inpatient basis).

5. The ability to focus on addressing problems before they arise rather than reacting to problems that may already be established.