By Sean T. Powell MSW, LCSW, CCM, OSW-C

My journey as an oncology social worker started in fall 1997 when I began my first internship at Lewis-Gale Regional Cancer Center in Salem, Virginia. I was a brand-new graduate student and eager to learn. I had asked for a placement in pediatric hospice, but to my unknown fortune, all they had available was the cancer center. I quickly realized I had found my place, fascinated with the integration of behavioral and medical interventions. Upon graduation, I was fortunate enough to obtain my first position at Massey Cancer Center at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia. 

I have been in practice now for over 25 years. A lot has changed since I saw my first patient so long ago. I have witnessed the evolution of oncology social work practice to be more defined, evidence based, and with a larger repertoire of interventions available to us. Access to information and resources is nearly immediate. Gone are the days of lugging around my giant binder filled with forms, information sheets, telephone numbers, and cab tickets. Those tools are now replaced with laptops, smart phones and the ability to connect with patients virtually.  

Early in my career I learned about the OSW-C credential and am proud to say that I have now been continuously certified for over 18 years. In my opinion, it has been one of the accomplishments on my resume that has allowed me to expand my work experience and take on greater levels of responsibility. This greater level of responsibility has allowed me to move from micro to macro practice, impacting more patient lives through leadership and advocacy at the administrative level. Having those four letters after my name got my resume on a desk of a hiring manager. Those letters also indicated to my colleagues that I have demonstrated a level of expertise and commitment to the practice of oncology social work.  

Just as our practice has changed, so has the OSW-C credential. We recently spent over a year examining the domains of practice and establishing them as the foundation of the credential. We also looked at where oncology social workers practice and updated eligibility criteria so that our colleagues in academia, non-patient facing positions, and private practice can apply for the credential. We broadened the requirement for CEUs, recognizing that the role of an oncology social worker encompasses a broad range of knowledge that is constantly advancing. 

Little did I know that this social work life would lead me through five states, five employers and numerous roles. I can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s not just the work with patients that has sustained me, but as importantly, the support I have received from the amazing professionals I have encountered. It is especially those I have met through AOSW and BOSWC that have encouraged my continued commitment and kept me wanting to see what is next. I may not die a millionaire, but I may die having made a million people’s lives a little better when they were faced with cancer.