The availability of psychosocial interventions to children with cancer and their families.
Awareness of the need for and efficacy of psychosocial services for pediatric oncology patients and their families has increased greatly in the last decade. However, it is currently unknown to what extent these services are available. Therefore, a national survey of pediatric oncologists was conducted to determine the availability of the following services: psychological/psychiatric and social work consultation, support groups for patients and family members, nonpharmacological pain and anxiety management, and nonpharmacological treatment of anticipatory emesis. Results suggest that most centers offer social work consultation and support groups to parents. Fewer support groups are offered to patients and even fewer nonpharmacological services to assist patients in coping with anticipatory nausea and pain are offered. Results are discussed in terms of the pattern of service delivery and cost-effectiveness.
Kaufman
K L
KL
Ohio State University and Children's Hospital, Columbus 43205.
Harbeck
C
C
Olson
R
R
Nitschke
R
R
D002173:Cancer Care Facilities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D002648:Child; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005192:Family Health; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D008495:Medical Oncology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000592:standards / Q000600:supply & distribution*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology*; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012947:Social Work / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States