General

Receiving a diagnosis of cancer is never easy but those diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 15 and 39 face unique challenges. One challenge often overlooked, and therefore not planned for, is the financial impact of cancer treatment on the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population. Before diagnosis, many AYAs are at a stage …

Supporting Financial Independence in the AYA Population: Considerations for Providers Read More »

As oncology social workers, understanding the psychosocial impact of financial toxicity and the ramifications of health equity disparities is crucial in providing comprehensive care for cancer patients. This article aims to explore the multifaceted challenges related to financial toxicity and health equity and disparities and provide insights and strategies to help oncology social workers support …

Navigating the Psychosocial Impact of Financial Toxicity and Health Equity Disparities in Oncology. Read More »

Financial toxicity is of paramount interest in oncology care in the U.S. As profits for insurers, health systems and pharmaceutical companies have increased, so has the burden of cost sharing, underinsurance and inflation for cancer survivors. While the Affordable Care Act aimed to control costs and provide access to insurance for more individuals, it also …

Social Workers as Financial Navigators: A Match Often Overlooked Read More »

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event that brings about numerous challenges for patients and their families. Beyond the physical and emotional toll, cancer often inflicts a silent burden that goes unnoticed: financial toxicity. The term "financial toxicity" refers to the adverse financial impact of cancer treatment, including the high costs of medical care, …

Navigating the Burden of Financial Toxicity: The Hidden Battle Faced by Cancer Patients Read More »

Palliative and oncology teams are certainly mindful that in order to care for others, we must care for ourselves, and one another. This looks different for each of us as does our ongoing grief. Our grief accumulates and our ability to practice ways of healing and sustaining our well-being diminishes if we are not careful. 

We all know the benefits of establishing a gratitude practice in our personal lives. A regular routine of noticing, acknowledging and appreciating can enhance our wellbeing, increase personal resilience and improve our relationships.   But what about the potential benefits of incorporating this practice into the workplace? What if our team, or even our entire institution, …

Gratitude at Work: Strategies for Establishing Institutionalized Gratitude in Oncology Care Settings Read More »

Dear Deborah;  I write this knowing that words will never capture the depth and breadth of your impact and influence on me, both as a clinician and as a human being. I’m not sure who first suggested that I reach out to you when I joined the cancer center at XXX back in 2000. I …

“Dear Deborah”: Gratitude letters are a beneficial intervention for cancer patients…  and a great practice for Oncology Social Workers   Read More »

In a world filled with daily loss, chaos, challenges, crises and rising mental health needs, we are immersed in opportunities to help our patients find sources of comfort, meaningful connections with themselves, and live through the beauty and the tragedies of life.  

As we gear up for Social Work Month, reflection and gratitude become common language in self-care practices and monthly goals. I often hear about gratitude when listening to podcasts about mindfulness and meditation. However, I do not hear enough about gratitude in professional practice. With the theme for this newsletter issue, it couldn’t be more …

Practical Approaches to Gratitude Practice Read More »

AOSW is happy to welcome a new member of our headquarters staff, Kate Monkus. Kate joined the AOSW in late June and is already diving into operations, membership and all things AOSW. Monkus has spent a lifetime working with non-profit organizations from community theater to international service clubs. During her career, Kate has held positions …

Staff News Read More »