Clinical Assessment in Oncology Social Work

Course overview

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that approximately 2 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer, and over half a million people die from the disease every year. ACS also estimates that there will be over 22 million cancer survivors in the U.S. by 2035. While these numbers are considerable, a cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a person's life and the lives of those they love. People living with the disease often experience a variety of physical, psychosocial, and spiritual concerns. The issues that impact patients also frequently affect caregivers and family members, while they are also having their own experience of witnessing their loved one live with the disease. All of these considerations can lead to cancer-related distress, which is noted to occur in about two-thirds of patients. With increases in the number of people living with cancer and the prevalence of cancer-related distress, oncology social workers remain essential for assessing and addressing the psychosocial needs of patients and their loved ones. This course will expand on the one titled 'Assessing Psychosocial Needs in Oncology' to review more core competencies for clinical practice. Evaluating a patient's risk of substance use, as well as suicidal and homicidal thoughts and behaviors, and when to refer for appropriate services or safety plan, is outlined. Assessing decision-making capacity and ethical/moral dilemmas that can arise in cancer care are also discussed. Identifying, promoting, and facilitating effective communication strategies among patients, caregivers, and other family members, particularly when talking about cancer with children, is reviewed. Lastly, clinical documentation processes are summarized.