Oncology Social Work Australia New Zealand Inc. (OSWANZ)

Oncology Social Work Australia New Zealand Inc. (OSWANZ) is a non-profit, incorporated international organisation dedicated to enhancing the psychosocial care of individuals affected by cancer. This specialist body supports social workers in Australia and New Zealand, focusing on networking, education, advocacy, research, and resource development to improve services for people with cancer and their families.

Purpose and Activities

OSWANZ seeks to support and educate oncology social workers to deliver high-quality psychosocial care. The organisation provides professional development opportunities for its members, including workshops and conferences. These events help social workers stay updated on best practices and advances in oncology social work. Additionally, OSWANZ engages in advocacy and consultancy services to promote the role of social workers in oncology care and supports academic research into psychosocial aspects of cancer healthcare.

Membership and Structure

OSWANZ has a membership base that comprises over 160 active social workers who are committed to excellence in psychosocial care for cancer patients. While the exact figure of oncology social workers in Australia is difficult to determine, OSWANZ plays a critical role in organizing them and advancing their practice.

Impact and Challenges

Despite the efforts of OSWANZ, oncology social work in Australia is perceived as less formalized compared to other countries like the USA. There are challenges in providing comprehensive psychosocial services across all healthcare settings, particularly in regional areas. However, OSWANZ continues to strive for better integration and recognition of oncology social work within the broader healthcare system.

Annual Events

OSWANZ organizes an annual conference, often accompanied by pre-conference workshops, which serve as significant platforms for networking, education, and collaboration among its members and the wider oncology community. These events are crucial for advancing the field through shared knowledge and practices.

Importance in Cancer Care

With the increasing incidence of cancer and its profound psychosocial impact on patients and their families, the work of organisations like OSWANZ is crucial. The role of oncology social workers includes assessing care needs, providing interventions, advocating for patients, and contributing to the development of effective treatment models. Thus, OSWANZ plays a vital role in ensuring that cancer care is holistic and addresses the comprehensive needs of those affected by cancer.

[1] https://www.oswanz.com [2] https://www.oswanz.com/about-us/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/a4642e80-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077 [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/a4642e80-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/1eb5e11c-8e6e-ec11-8f8e-00224891b076 [5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9122341/