Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW)

November is National Family Caregivers Month!

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on the true heroes among us – family caregivers. Every day, they provide unwavering love, support, and strength to those who need it most. 💖

To all caregivers: we see you, we celebrate you, and we thank you for your incredible dedication. You are the heart of healing and hope. 🤗

Looking for resources to support your caregiving journey? Visit the AOSW website for a library of valuable tools and information! https://bit.ly/47dflmS

Exciting News! AOSW’s paper, The Essential and Evolving Nature of Oncology Social Work: Accomplishments and Impact, 2010–present, is now available with open access!

Dive into the full article to explore the incredible advancements and impact oncology social work has made over the last decade.

Read it here and comment your thoughts:

The essential and evolving nature of oncology social work: Accomplishments and impact, 2010–present This paper demonstrates the essential nature of oncology social work and the critical role that oncology social workers (OSWs) play in the achievement of high-quality cancer care that improves pati...

Studies reveal the financial fallout of cancer survivors A diagnosis of cancer can take a toll on more than a person's health. Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School in Boston found that financial fallout can follow patients with cancer and their families in the form of bankruptcy, lower credit scores, and other for...

📰 Last Week's OSW NewsBrief is Live!

Stay informed with the latest updates from the oncology social work community! In this edition, you’ll find:

- 💻 October 17 CE Opportunity on Trauma-Informed Care
- 📝 Submit an Abstract for AOSW 2025
- 🗓️ Upcoming Webinars & Abstract Support Sessions
- 🤝 Mentorship Program updates and Call for Webinar Proposals
- 🎉 Celebrating AOSW’s 40th anniversary in JPO

Don’t miss out on these great opportunities and more! Check your inbox or click here to read the full issue: https://bit.ly/4eLNsGS

Today is Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day 🎗️ Approximately 30% of early-stage breast cancers will eventually spread to other parts of the body. This day aims to raise awareness and emphasize the urgent need for more research into metastatic disease.

Check out the 2021 AOSW Annual Meeting recording, "Supporting Young Adults with Metastatic Cancer: The Unique Role of Oncology Social Work," with Lauren Broschak, MSW, LCSW, Erin Price, MSW, LICSW, OSW-C, and Julia Leavitt, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C: https://bit.ly/3PX30fF

2021 Virtual Meeting Recordings – AOSW Title: Opening Keynote: Anticipating and Addressing the Behavioral Health Impacts of COVID-19: Implications for Cancer and Community CarePresenter: Susan Hedlund, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, FAOSWClick here to purchase

🌸 Caring for Breast Cancer Patients in Underserved Communities 🌸

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in U.S. women and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. In New York State, 16,700 women are diagnosed yearly, with 2,500 losing their lives. This article highlights how we can improve care for patients in underserved communities, ensuring better access to life-saving treatments.

Check out the AOSW Connections article "Caring for Breast Cancer Patients in Underserved Communities" by Adriana Valencia, MSW: https://bit.ly/3PDPTje

Caring for Breast Cancer Patients in Underserved Communities – AOSW To submit a story or information for inclusion in a future issue of AOSW Newsletter, contact Amy Colver or Melody Griffith on the list above.

Have you submitted your abstract?

The 2025 AOSW Annual Conference in Atlanta is open for proposal submissions! Share your research, innovative practices, or skill-building sessions on topics like patient navigation, virtual OSW services, and more. 🌟

🗓️ Submission Deadline: October 31, 2024

🔗 To submit, visit: https://bit.ly/3ZzbK1O

https://phys.org/news/2024-10-tough-uncompromising-capable-social-culture.html

'Tough and uncompromising' training capable of transforming social work culture Described as "tough and uncompromising", Grit Breakthrough Programs uses intensive group workshops and individual coaching to challenge assumptions, attitudes, and expectations, with the aim of helping participants break through self-imposed limitations and build confidence and resilience.

Incarcerated Patients Face Barriers to Optimal Cancer Care There’s a lot of work to be done to improve cancer care for incarcerated patients, according to Christopher Manz, MD.

Members only reminder: Join us on October 17th for an insightful event on the "Introduction to Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) for Healthcare Providers" presented by Christina Bach, MBE, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, FAOSW, and Courtney Misher, MPH, BS, RT(T)

🕛 Time: 12:00 - 1:30 PM ET
🎓 Earn 1.5 CE credits!

This is a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of TIC and how it can be applied in healthcare settings. Don't miss out on this enriching experience!

🔗 Register now: https://bit.ly/3Y0UD7W

🌟 Oncology social workers play a vital role in supporting patients, families, and caregivers by providing them with valuable, up-to-date information to navigate their journey. At AOSW, we offer sensitive and relevant training led by experts in the field.

Do you have an innovative idea for a webinar? We want to hear from you! Let’s empower our community together! 💪✨

Complete the AOSW Webinar Proposal Form for our Webinar Subcommittee to review: https://bit.ly/3TOlRwg

🌸 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! 🌸

Join us this month as we share valuable articles and resources to raise awareness about breast cancer. Despite significant medical advancements, this disease continues to impact the lives of countless women, their families, and communities every year.

In the U.S., breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, following skin cancer, and it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Let’s come together to support one another, spread awareness, and empower those affected by breast cancer. Stay tuned for informative content throughout the month! 💖

Read the AOSW Connections article "Leveraging Technology to Create Community for Breast Cancer Survivors" by Kiersten Anderson, MSW, LICSW: https://bit.ly/3Y7SS9e

🧡 Setting boundaries at work is a crucial yet challenging task for many cancer patients and survivors. Join Ali Schaffer, LCSW, for an insightful FREE session on how to empower yourself through boundary-setting in the workplace.

📅 Wednesday, October 9
⏰ 6:00 PM ET
📍 Presented by Cancer + Careers
💡 Earn 1 CE Credit

Learn practical tips to implement and maintain boundaries that will help protect your well-being and ensure your success at work. For more information, visit: https://bit.ly/3ZQjMDE

🔔 Call for Abstracts!

The 2025 AOSW Annual Conference in Atlanta is open for proposal submissions! Share your research, innovative practices, or skill-building sessions on topics like patient navigation, virtual OSW services, and more. 🌟

🗓️ Submission Deadline: October 31, 2024

🔗 To submit, visit: https://bit.ly/3ZzbK1O

🌟 Upcoming Members-Only Event! 🌟

Join us on October 17th for an insightful event on the "Introduction to Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) for Healthcare Providers" presented by Christina Bach, MBE, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, FAOSW, and Courtney Misher, MPH, BS, RT(T)

🕛 Time: 12:00 - 1:30 PM ET
🎓 Earn 1.5 CE credits!

This is a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of TIC and how it can be applied in healthcare settings. Don't miss out on this enriching experience!

🔗 Register now: https://bit.ly/3Y0UD7W

📢 Call for Abstracts!

AOSW is now accepting proposals for the 2025 AOSW Annual Conference in Atlanta! Share your research or skill-building ideas on topics like patient navigation, virtual OSW services, and more. 🌟

🗓️ Deadline: October 31, 2024
Submit today and be part of AOSW’s 40th Annual Conference!

🔗 For details, visit: https://bit.ly/3ZzbK1O

https://news.northwestern.edu/stories/2024/september/cancer-patients-want-financial-screening-early-in-care-study-finds/

Cancer. And then, paying for cancer treatment Patients with cancer want their care team to assess them early in treatment about their concerns related to costs of care, reports a Northwestern Medicine study. It is the first time a study has sought cancer patients’ input on how they want to be screened for financial needs.

September is upon us.

If you haven't received last week's edition of the OSW Newsbrief, don't fret. We have everything prepared for you.

Read here: https://bit.ly/4eqkhs1

🚨 Happening Tomorrow! 🚨

Don’t miss out on our live event, "Mental Health Matters: The Importance of Mental Health After a Cancer Diagnosis," happening TOMORROW, Tuesday, September 17! 💬

Join experts Rachel Saks and Marcy Sansbury as they dive into the essential role of mental health support for cancer patients. 🧠💜 This is your chance to gain valuable insights and earn 1 CE Credit!

📅 Time: 1:00 - 2:00 PM ET

🔗 Register Today: https://bit.ly/4e821U8

We are a week away from our live event: "Mental Health Matters: The Importance of Mental Health After a Cancer Diagnosis" 💬
Join experts Rachel Saks and Marcy Sansbury in a discussion about the vital importance of mental health support for individuals with cancer. 🧠💜

📅 Time: 1:00 - 2:00 PM ET
🌐 Earn 1 CE Credit and gain valuable insights to support your work in oncology social work.

🔗 Register Today: https://bit.ly/4e821U8

SAVE THE DATE: The 2025 AOSW Annual Conference is heading to Atlanta! 🎉 Join us from June 11-13, 2025, at the stunning Westin Peachtree Plaza for an unforgettable experience of learning, connection, and inspiration. 🌆✨

Get ready to explore new ideas, engage with fellow oncology social workers, and elevate your practice. 🧠💜

More information: https://bit.ly/3Xwl996