Support when you need it most

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Our team will guide you to the resources you need

Cancer affects many parts of your life, but you don’t have to face these new challenges alone. Whether you need physical, emotional, or social support, our oncology social workers will help you gain access to the services you need. 

As members of your health care team, our social workers focus on caring for your emotional and social well-being and can point you, your caregivers, and your family to resources and information to better cope with a cancer diagnosis and the impact that treatment can have on your life.  

We assist with:

  • Making psychosocial assessments for screening and support in coping
  • Providing assistance for coping with emotions—sadness, anger, worry, and fears
  • Accessing counseling services 
  • Addressing how cancer may affect your body image and intimacy
  • Assisting you in talking with children, family, and employers regarding cancer diagnosis
  • Preparing advance directives through advance care planning discussions, including completion of durable power of attorney for healthcare, living will, and IPOST (Iowa Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment)
  • Solving issues that arise during treatment
  • Facilitating discussions about end of life care and its impact on you and your family
  • Supporting throughout survivorship 

We help you navigate your journey:

  • Accessing information to help you understand your diagnosis and treatment
  • Enhancing communication between you and your treatment team members
  • Addressing questions or needs regarding transportation or lodging
  • Assessing resources and providing referrals for additional options for help in your home
  • Making referrals to home health, hospice, nursing home, and assisted living agencies in your communities               
  • Providing referrals to other community agencies that may be available to provide support to you and your families

We help identify financial resources:

  • Providing information on insurance and medication assistance programs (as available)
  • Providing information regarding Social Security disability, FMLA, and vocational rehabilitation                

To reach a social worker, talk to your provider or call 1-800-777-8442.