Implementing the psychosocial standards in pediatric cancer: Current staffing and services available.

ABSTRACT: Fifteen evidence-based Standards for Psychosocial Care for Children with Cancer and Their Families (Standards) were published in 2015. The Standards cover a broad range of topics and circumstances and require qualified multidisciplinary staff to be implemented. This paper presents data on the availability of psychosocial staff and existing practices at pediatric oncology programs in the United States, providing data that can be used to advocate for expanded services and prepare for implementation of the Standards. Up to three healthcare professionals from 144 programs (72% response rate) participated in an online survey conducted June-December 2016. There were 99 pediatric oncologists with clinical leadership responsibility (Medical Director/Clinical Director), 132 psychosocial leaders in

SUBMITTER: Scialla MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5719337 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature