Abstract

The extent to which oncology social workers (OSWs) are available and adapting to disruptions in service delivery throughout the COVID-19 pandemic is unknown.

Objectives: The purpose of this report is to outline the initial impact of COVID-19 on oncology social work practice during the first six months of the pandemic.

Methods: As part of a nationwide investigation of workforce conditions for OSWs, three professional organizations surveyed their members to assess the effects of COVID-19 on changes to work hours, employment status, work setting, pay, and mode for patient contact (e.g., telephone or videoconference).

Findings: Among 939 OSWs, 20% reported a reduction in work hours, and two-thirds indicated a temporary shift in work to home, with most patient contact occurring primarily via telephone or videoconference.

Implications: Results speak to the essential nature of oncology social work and the need for evidence to inform OSW training and advocacy efforts for however long the pandemic continues.

摘要

在整个 COVID-19 大流行期间，肿瘤社会工作者 (OSW) 的可用程度和适应服务中断的程度尚不清楚。

目标：本报告的目的是概述 COVID-19 在大流行的前六个月对肿瘤社会工作实践的初步影响。

方_电话或视频会议）。

调查结果：在 939 名 OSW 中，20% 的人报告工作时间减少，三分之二的人表示暂时将工作转移到家中，大多数患者接触主要通过电话或视频会议进行。

影响：结果说明了肿瘤学社会工作的基本性质，以及需要证据来为 OSW 培训和宣传工作提供信息，无论大流行持续多久。