Oncology Social Worker

How patients cope with their cancer diagnosis and treatment impacts their progress and overall physical health. Oncology social workers can provide counseling and other services to help meet patients’ psychosocial needs.

Patient Assessment

Our team utilizes the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) supported screening tool, which measures overall distress. Based on the findings, our social workers provide further evaluation and offer a range of interventions. Interventions may include:

• Supportive counseling
• Information regarding financial assistance
• Referrals to community resources
• Professional guidance around the multiple challenges posed by a cancer diagnosis
• Financial guidance around insurance and issues around paying for care

How an Oncology Social Worker Can Help:

• Assist patients/families in coping with stresses during all phases of the cancer continuum (i.e. initial diagnosis, recurrence, survivorship, end of life).
• Provide info/referrals regarding supportive and assistance resources in the community (i.e. support groups, financial assistance programs, long term counseling).
• Guidance about communicating with children, family and employers regarding their illness.
• Assist in completion of Advance Directives.

Amy Tissiere, LCSW-C, will identify and assess high-risk outpatient oncology patients and help them address the many challenges they and their families face. Amy is a member of the National Association of Social Workers. She has an extensive background working with persons with cancer and their families in both inpatient and outpatient settings, as well as additional experience as a facilitator of patient/caregiver and bereavement support groups.

Contact Us

You can call us to arrange a social worker consult at the Patient and Family Support Program 1-800-966-2619.