This episode talks with Lauren Shea, MSW, a social worker and cancer survivor herself who unpacks the types of supportive services available to patients with a special focus on fostering support for patients who are single, widowed or divorced.
Specifically we discuss:
What is Supportive care?
Whole person care- care that not only treats the cancer but also improves the quality of life of the person who has cancer
Including the physical, psychological, social and spiritual health of a patient
What are supportive care services?
Child life specialists, Social workers, Psychologists, Spiritual counseling, Social Workers, Positive image center (Cosmetologists can walk through changes in appearance), Integrative oncologists, Meditation classes
What are the benefits of supportive care services?
Identifying your values as a patient and improving communication with the medical team
Education and Support throughout the illness
How to get connected to supportive care services?
Ask your oncologist or primary care doctor for a referral
Referral to Social Work is a good first step and they can connect a patient to many different resources available at that hospital
Ask around- “What Supportive Care Services are available here?”
What specific services help patients who are single, widowed, divorced?
Transportation services (Disability benefits, Go Go Grandma, ask your SW!)
Caregiving Support (In-Home Supportive Services, understanding your support network)
Psychosocial support- see below
What resources are available for patients?
American Cancer Society- Hotline
Cancer Support Community - Support Groups, Individual Therapy, Financial Assistance
2-1-1: Can get access to local resources - food, housing instability
Epic Experience- free Cancer Camp in Colorado
Adolescent and Young Adult Resources
First Descents - Adventure Therapy for age 18-39 years old