Master’s level, oncology certified, social workers meet with patients and their families to provide emotional support, assess for psychosocial needs, and identify available resources and support systems. Complimentary individual and family counseling, related to issues in living with cancer, are available for emotional support, education, and adjustment to the disease of cancer. The oncology social workers can provide a list of community resources, make referrals , and assist with establishing home services and equipment. 

The oncology social workers are an integral part of the interdisciplinary treatment team and work with the physicians and extenders. They offer expertise on how to complete Advance Directives (i.e., Healthcare Power of Attorney, Living Will) and, upon request, provide the forms, assist with completing them, and notarize them (where available), at no cost to the patients. 

The oncology social workers, dietitians, physicians, physician extenders, and nurses offer periodic educational workshops, based on patients’ needs, many focusing on Survivorship Care. A monthly Calendar of Events is available to patients to keep them abreast of upcoming events. 

Resources 

If you would like more information about available resources (local and national, written, telephone, websites) to support you through your cancer journey, please see an oncology social worker, dietitian or dietician. Additionally, many resources are listed in your Patient Education Resource Handbook.