As discussions around the increasing institutionalisation of death continues, updated local and international epidemiological data and research now demonstrates shifting trends and an increasing distinction between preferred place of care and preferred place of death. This paper will focus on how heterogeneity between cancer patient groups, distinctions between ideal and realistic circumstances and additional disease related and socio demographic factors influence the congruence between cancer patients articulated wishes and final outcomes. It will also discuss recently evaluated models of care and interventions aimed at reduces the research-practice gaps in caring for cancer patients at the end of life.