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Forest in Fall

To make an appointment to talk to someone about the Social Work Program, please call one of our trained professionals.

Social Work

Social Workers at the Cancer Center collaborate with patient care teams and integrate the mission and core values of social work utilizing principles and standards to guide ethical decision-making. Social Workers’ primary goal is to help people in need and to address social problems.

What We Do

Our social workers are licensed professionals who can help you and your family deal with the stresses of cancer by:

  • Empowering and providing the necessary support services to manage the emotional, financial and social needs of dealing with cancer
  • Acting as a bridge to the medical care team

To Talk with Us

Appointments are not necessary, but are encouraged to help prevent a long wait. Often, we are also able to accommodate you by having a phone conversation rather than an office visit.

Social Work at Upstate Cancer Center

Watch this video to learn how our Social Work Team can help you.

Cancer Center Social Work Services

We can provide a variety of services and information and can help identify appropriate community resources including:

  • Emotional support and mental health counseling
  • Substance use/abuse programs
  • Agencies and programs to assist with co-pay relief and other financial assistance
  • Social Security programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) and how to apply
  • Home healthcare and infusion agencies
  • Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and supplies
  • Adjustment to illness, decision making, end of life care
  • Hospice information and referrals
  • Lodging during treatment period
  • Transportation assistance
  • Advance Directives
    • Health Care Proxy (HCP)
    • Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (MOLST)
    • referrals for Power of Attorney (POA)/other legal needs
  • Public assistance programs
  • Coordination with inpatient services
  • Special programs for caregivers, children, and other family members
  • Seminars, workshops and disease-specific resources

A cancer diagnosis can disrupt many areas of life for a patient and their loved ones. We are here during this challenging time to support you through your experience with decisions and treatment to help provide a more informed and empowered position.

Social Work Staff

Tracey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in meeting the psycho-social needs of people with cancer and blood disorders. She works closely with the Palliative Care Team.

Amy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to supporting Cancer Center patients. Amy is primarily in the Hematology/Oncology clinics and infusion.

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