Our oncology social workers talk with patients and their families about emotional or physical needs, and help them find support services and other appropriate community resources.
A cancer diagnosis can affect many areas of a patient’s life, causing them to feel overwhelmed.
Some of the needs that social workers will commonly identify and assist with include:
- Transportation and housing needs
- Financial concerns that patients may have about paying medical bills, rent, or utilities
- Limitations that patients may have independently performing daily life needs, such as bathing, cooking, or dressing
- Support for mental health, emotional health, or self-image concerns
- Advanced care planning and documenting future healthcare wishes
In this episode of our podcast, Cancer Care Today, we explore the role of the oncology social worker and the ways in which they help patients and their families navigate the many emotional, social, and financial aspects of a cancer diagnosis.
Nicole Reitsma, LICSW, is a certified oncology social worker and part of the Minnesota Oncology social work team.
Share
Categories
Tags
Recent Posts
In the United States, approximately 9,310 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year. It is the most common form of cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35, and one of the most curable.
April is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month, which makes this good time to learn the signs of esophageal cancer and what you can do to reduce your risk.
Medical Laboratory Professionals appreciation week is April 14, 2024 - April 20, 2024. Medical laboratory professionals play a crucial role in healthcare by conducting tests on patient samples to help diagnose, treat, and prevent various medical conditions.