Oncology Social Workers
Cancer can challenge your health and overall well-being in both expected and unexpected ways. Many patients expect the obvious challenges related to testing, treatment, and recovery. However, cancer care also can cause stress in other ways outside of clinical care. You could face stress due to financial strain, juggling multiple medical appointments, insurance issues, expensive medications, travel and lodging, and a possible lack of support at home. Oncology social workers specialize in helping you remove these barriers.
At the UAB O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, our team of licensed oncology social workers addresses the issues that may affect your well-being during your treatment and survivorship journey. They understand the challenges that cancer often creates. And they can serve as a bridge between you and your medical team. Our social workers relay important information from your doctors to you, and vice versa.
Oncology social workers can help with:
- Lodging and transportation resources
- Prescription assistance, to make cancer medications more accessible and affordable
- Community resources
- Adapting to your changing care needs at home
Our oncology social workers are here to help you navigate the wide range of UAB and community resources that may be available to you. They also can provide the latest patient education information.
Our oncology social worker team co-hosts a support group that meets regularly. Learn more about our Cancer Support Groups.
Your doctors, nurses, or nurse navigator may refer you to an oncology social worker when challenges arise. If you think you may need to meet with an oncology social worker, please tell your nurse navigator.