Integrating employment-related assessments into cancer patient navigation

This symposium will provide oncology healthcare professionals with information and tools to help navigate their patients through the employment-related issues that arise when someone is diagnosed with cancer. These issues include the legal protections and practical strategies for working though treatment and/or taking time off work for treatment and recovery, deciding whether or not to disclose their diagnosis, returning to the workplace, managing side effects on-the-job, and maintaining income. Attendees will be given information about the state and federal laws that may apply to patients and caregivers in the workplace, including protections against discrimination, access to reasonable accommodations, and disability insurance options. Attendees will also learn about the different needs of individuals who are newly diagnosed, those who work through treatment, those who take time off, and those who are returning to the same job or looking for a new one. A recent survey found that 40% of cancer survivors who were asked about the practical concerns they faced, specifically mentioned employment issues, and 23% of those individuals did not receive any assistance related to those issues. Therefore, it is critical for oncology healthcare professionals to receive education in this area, because they are uniquely positioned to help patients navigate balancing cancer and work, provided they receive appropriate training and resources. Attendees will be able to identify the unique employment issues faced by those coping with cancer, the legal rights and benefits to which patients and caregivers may be entitled, and practical tips for navigating those issues.