Supportive care of the patient with pancreatic cancer: the role of the oncology social worker
Ccsw, V.N.K.A.
Oncology 10(9 Suppl): 35-37
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0890-9091 PMID: 8884807 Document Number: 458651
The goals of oncology social work are to facilitate patient and family adjustment to the diagnosis and treatment of the disease; to promote psychosocial recovery and rehabilitation for both patient and family; and to facilitate utilization of health-care resources. The first step for the social worker is to develop a plan of psychosocial care for the patient and family, based on assessment of their physical and psychological functioning and available supportive resources. Social workers can help patients and their families overcome barriers to accessing services such as arrangements for transportation or the procurement of financial assistance. The oncology social worker can also be a valuable resource for information about the patient's disease, including explanation of treatment plans and pain management options.