Cancer can put a person ’ s health at risk , but it also poses challenges to physical , social , emotional and mental wellbeing . In response , the O ’ Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center has integrated the UAB Supportive Care Psycho- Oncology Program into patient care , to promote a culture of caring for the emotional impact of cancer .
About one in three patients with a cancer diagnosis will experience mental health issues during treatment , according to one often-cited study . Also , the National Institutes of Health ( NIH ) says 25 % of survivors face persisting mental health challenges after treatment . These challenges may appear at any time – especially during important steps in the cancer journey – and may include depression , scan / appointment anxiety , strained relationships and body image and self-esteem issues .
Sylvia Huang , Ph . D ., clinical psychologist and director of the Psycho-Oncology Program , underscores the importance of mental health care for improved cancer outcomes . The program has grown rapidly since its inception , now encompassing 4,500 visits per year across inpatient and outpatient services and accounting for 40 % of all Supportive Care services .
“ The dynamic mental health needs of thousands of patients can be met when mental health awareness and responsiveness are integrated into oncology Supportive Care ,” Huang said .
CAPTURING THE NEED The O ’ Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center stands out as one of the few such centers that prioritizes mental health screening for cancer patients during intake , integrating it with vital sign checks and other routine care . Huang led development of the Distress Screening and Management Program ( DSMP ), which has conducted 54,000 distress screenings for UAB Medicine patients with cancer . Patients are asked a series of questions about their mental well-being , and an algorithm is used to identify those who may be at risk , triggering referrals for follow-up care .
To support the DSMP , Huang and colleague Judith Igbinakenzua , DNP , AGNP-C , have trained over 200 certified medical assistants , intake nurses and oncology providers across UAB Medicine . These health care professionals are equipped to provide immediate care using an “ emotional first aid kit ” for patients who screen positive for distress . They offer guidance and education , and they facilitate connections with Psycho-Oncology Program providers for follow-up care .
“ The integration of distress screening into oncology visits , which helps capture care needs early , is key to preventing mental health crises later ,” Huang said .
CHALLENGES AT EACH TURNING POINT The Psycho-Oncology Program comprises a team of psychologists , counselors and residents who serve as a valuable resource for patients throughout their survivorship , extending beyond diagnosis and treatment . Huang said each major turning point in a patient ’ s cancer journey has the potential to cause unique mental and emotional distress , as described in the following instances :
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