Common Practice Challenges: Working with People Impacted by Cancer

Caring for those impacted by cancer is an increasingly common occurrence, regardless of a social worker’s practice setting. As our population ages, more people are diagnosed, and although treatments have significantly prolonged life for many, cancer is still a leading cause of death in the U.S. and across the world. And unfortunately, treatment for cancer may have negative effects on a person’s quality of life for decades. The impacts of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment are felt not just by the person living with the illness, but by their family, care partners, and communities—and may last across generations. Earlier discharges and more complicated treatment regimes are dependent upon others devoting time and attention to caring for ever-sicker patients at home.

The financial toxicity associated with rising medical costs is tremendous and the No. 1 cause of personal bankruptcy. These burdens of cancer care are inequitably distributed, with disparities in outcomes associated with marginalized populations. Delayed diagnoses, limited access to quality care, lack of adequate insurance, and greater social risk factors are all associated with poorer outcomes and offer opportunities for social work advocacy and intervention.

This interactive workshop will provide social workers in a range of settings with information needed to recognize and better address the impacts of cancer on all those they serve. Three continuing education hours will be offered upon completion of the course.