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Psychology Staffing at Cancer Centers: Data From National Comprehensive Cancer Network Member Institutions
Laura Melton1, Diana Krause2, Jessica Sugalski2
1University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO.
JCO Oncology Practice
|July 1, 2020
Summary
Psycho-oncology staffing varies widely. Most cancer centers employ psychologists for patient care, but their roles, appointments, and direct care time differ significantly across institutions.
Area of Science:
- Psycho-oncology
- Cancer Care Delivery
- Healthcare Workforce Analysis
Background:
- The field of psycho-oncology is underdeveloped.
- Limited data exists on psychologist utilization within cancer centers.
- The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) initiated a study to assess current trends.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand the current trends in the employment and utilization of psychologists at NCCN Member Institutions.
- To gather data on psychologist staffing, academic appointments, and direct patient care roles.
Main Methods:
- A survey was developed and administered electronically by the NCCN Best Practices Committee.
- The survey targeted NCCN Member Institutions regarding their use of psychologists.
- Data was collected in the spring/summer of 2017 from participating cancer centers.
Main Results:
- 18 out of 30 NCCN cancer centers completed the survey.
- 94% of surveyed institutions employ psychologists for direct patient care.
- Significant variability was observed in psychologist full-time equivalents (FTEs), academic appointment types (faculty/staff), and the proportion of time dedicated to direct clinical care (ranging from 15%-90%).
Conclusions:
- There is substantial heterogeneity in how cancer centers structure psychology departments.
- Variability exists in academic appointments and the extent of direct patient care provided by psychologists.
- Further research may be needed to standardize best practices in psycho-oncology staffing.