“No turning back” Psycho‐oncology in the time of COVID‐19: Insights from a survey of UK professionals

Abstract

The information sheet included details on data anonymity and procedures for stopping participation or withdrawing data. Participants gave informed consent before continuing to survey items. 2.5 | Ethics Ethical approval was gained from Leeds Beckett University Psychology Department ethics committee on 19th May 2020 (REC reference 71 829). 2.6 | Data analysis Demographic information was analysed descriptively with frequencies and proportional data reported using SPSS Version 26. Data from the open questions were subject to thematic analysis. 4 Data were reviewed by all authors, and notes created about possible codes. Formal coding of data from each question was completed by two researchers; any discrepancies were discussed. Codes were extracted and drawn into sub-themes and themes. These were organised around strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) framework 5 to facilitate interpretation. Strengths and weaknesses focus on exploring events that have already happened; opportunities and threats look to the future. 3 | RESULTS 3.1 | Sample and demographics The survey was completed by 94 participants (see Table 1) based in a range of settings; clinical, n = 47 (50%), academic, n = 33 (35%), third sector n = 10 (11%), other n = 4 (4%). 3.2 | Survey findings Key findings are described separately below for psycho-oncology services and research activity. Table 2 provides a summary of results within the SWOT framework. 3.2.1 | Feedback on psycho-oncology services Challenges: Weaknesses and threats In response to the wider context of changes to cancer services (restrictions in treatment delivery and service reductions), the pandemic has forced a change in the delivery of psycho-oncology services

Oncology Health Care Providers’ Perceptions of the Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Oncology Patients

“…This a concern as Archer et. al (2020) reported a decline in the number of patients referred to psychological services for support, advice and care showcasing cancer patients needs are not being met, especially during a crisis [7]. This also showcases how vital it is for OCHP to implement appropriate safety nets and services to protect PLWC mental health.…”

“…Lui et al (2020) found that the prevalence of psychological problems increased from 36.95% to 43.8% and among cancer patients in China since the outbreak of COVID-19 [6]. Social isolation measures to contain the spread of the infection caused cancer treatment delays which can cause distress about potential negative outcomes [7]. Sud et al, (2020) identi ed modest delays of three and six months in cancer surgery will signi cantly impact survival [8].…”

The impact of COVID-19 on the professional and personal lives of pediatric oncology social workers

“…[8][9][10] Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and throughout previous infectious outbreaks, hospital social workers, including pediatric oncology social workers have experienced significant practice changes as they attempt to maintain professional integrity and provide ethical care in the face of challenging obstacles. [11][12][13][14][15][16] Adapting to rapidly evolving organizational policies, being mandated to work remotely, facing job insecurity, reducing team cohesion due to lengthy periods of isolation from team members and other colleagues, establishing safe forms of communication from digital platforms, and accessing appropriate IT equipment all contribute to the professional challenges faced. 17 The social work profession is centered on beliefs, values, and ethics focused on respect for the dignity of all people and equitable access to supports and resources that enhance a person's life.…”

“…[22][23][24][25] Amidst the challenges the pandemic has unleashed on pediatric oncology social work practice, it may also have given birth to positive changes in working practices and new ways of reducing psychosocial care barriers even beyond the end of the pandemic. 14 The primary objectives of this current survey were to determine the work structure, daily psychosocial care provided, practice model changes of pediatric oncology social workers and the impact to their personal and family lives during the Covid-19 pandemic.…”

The Society for Integrative Oncology Practice Recommendations for online consultation and treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic

“…Several recently published commentaries discussing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and associated physical distancing regulations, on cancer care provision have recommended delays in cancer treatment and a reduction in the number of in-person treatments and consultations [ 10 – 12 ]. Prioritization of cancer treatments by institutions during the pandemic has also meant that some treatments deemed non-essential by decision makers, include those falling under the rubric of supportive care and integrative oncology, have been made inaccessible [ 13 ]. This is particularly troubling in light of research that has shown cancer patients and survivors experiencing heightened levels of mental health issues during the pandemic exacerbated due to restricted access to timely and appropriate cancer care [ 14 , 15 ]…”