Distress Screening: An Opportunity for Enhancing Quality Cancer Care and Promoting the Oncology Social Work Profession

    Authors

    B. Zebrack; M. A. Burg;V. Vaitones

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    J. Psychosoc. Oncol.

    Keywords

    distress screening; professional development; advocacy; RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED-TRIAL; OF-LIFE; PSYCHOSOCIAL INTERVENTIONS; PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS; PRACTICE GUIDELINES; METAANALYSIS; COMMUNICATION; DEPRESSION; PREVALENCE; MANAGEMENT; Psychology, Social

    Abstract

    Throughout its history, social work has played a critical role in major client/patient care initiatives because of its unique perspective, wisdom, and skills. The new screening standards set forth by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer place oncology social workers at the forefront of developing and implementing procedures for distress screening. Our profession is again challenged to work across disciplines and change systems of care to improve the health and welfare of patients with cancer and their families. Indeed, emerging research suggests that the use of psychosocial screening instruments results in reductions in emotional distress, better quality of life, and improved patient-provider communication. As an introduction to this special issue on distress screening, this article offers a brief overview of issues related to distress screening that are covered by papers authored in this special issue by Association of Oncology Social Work members. Topics addressed include a review of the historical context driving distress screening implementation, barriers and challenges to oncology social workers trying to implement distress screening, statistical and cultural considerations for selecting screening tools, best practice models, and future considerations. This special issue is intended to be a primer and serves to promote oncology social workers' involvement and leadership in the development and implementation of distress screening.

    Journal Title

    Journal of Psychosocial Oncology

    Volume

    30

    Issue/Number

    6

    Publication Date

    1-1-2012

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    615

    Last Page

    624

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000310593700001

    ISSN

    0734-7332

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