Oncology Behavioral Health

• Assessment and intervention for Psychosocial distress:
• Support groups and patient mentor connections
• Referrals to community resources
• Long-term care and end-of-life planning
• Assistance in accessing financial aid
• Decision-making related to career, retirement, disability
• Education on diagnosis, carcinogens, healthy lifestyle choices, resources
• Spiritual support and chaplain referrals

• Counseling for Oncology/Hematology patients and their families:
• Understanding of diagnosis and treatment options
• Communicating with health care team and family
• Coping with illness and the grieving of losses
• Living with cancer and/or the fear of recurrence
• End-of-life transitioning, legacy work, and bereavement support
• Adjusting to physical and mental changes
• Reviewing life purpose and meaning
• Addressing spiritual needs and distress
• Treating anxiety/panic, depression, anger, and trauma

Referral

All MHP Oncology and Hematology patients are regularly screened for Psychosocial distress, using the NCCN Distress Thermometer and the PHQ-2. Patients reporting and/or exhibiting distress are referred to the Social Worker for follow-up. Patients and families can also self-refer. Regardless of reported distress, the Social Worker introduces social services and offers support to all Oncology patients actively in treatment.