Exploring Connectedness in a Time of Isolation: A Reflection on Social Work Practice in an Oncology Unit during COVID-19

In these unprecedented times, my job as an oncology social worker in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne has required flexibility and increased time commitments to address the various psychosocial challenges faced by oncology patients during COVID. At a time when patients are confronted by life-changin...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Australian social work 2021-01, Vol.74 (1), p.123-124
Main Author: Di Ciero, Jo
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Cancer
COVID-19 (Disease)
Oncology
Patients
Services for
Social aspects
Social isolation
Social service
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Summary:In these unprecedented times, my job as an oncology social worker in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne has required flexibility and increased time commitments to address the various psychosocial challenges faced by oncology patients during COVID. At a time when patients are confronted by life-changing circumstances, the elevated risk of acquiring COVID while having a compromised immune system adds another dimension of anxiety and distress. The combined fear of having a cancer diagnosis and being at risk of the impact of a largely unknown virus cannot but remind us of our vulnerability.
ISSN:0312-407X
1447-0748
DOI:10.1080/03036758.2020.1833404