A model psychosocial-spiritual oncology and cancer supportive care services program: Framework and implementation

Psychosocial oncology and supportive care services are essential for addressing the multifaceted needs of patients with cancer and their families. This paper outlines the framework for a model program, Cedars-Sinai Cancer's Patient and Family Support Program, a service line that integrates psychosocial-spiritual care and supportive care services into standard ambulatory oncology practice throughout the geographic footprint of the institution. The program emphasizes a mission-driven, embedded, transdisciplinary, patient-centered approach, evidence-based interventions, and scholarly activity to improve quality of life, treatment tolerance, and overall outcomes. Key components include wellness offerings, palliative medicine, psychiatry, nutrition, social work, psychotherapeutic services, spiritual care, care coordination, oncology physical medicine and rehabilitation, and survivorship services. Approaches for implementation and strategies for overcoming barriers are also discussed, providing a roadmap for institutions aiming to establish or enhance their psychosocial oncology and supportive care services.