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Psychosocial Oncology (HLTH90003)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Online
About this subject
Contact information
Term 2
Email: continuing-education@unimelb.edu.au
Phone: + 61 3 8344 0149
Contact hours: https://unimelb.edu.au/professional-development/contact-us
Overview
| Availability | Term 2 - Online |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
This subject explores the theoretical paradigms, and the political, economic and social determinants of psychosocial practice in the field of oncology. Advances in cancer care, and the relevance of these in relation to life stresses and quality of life, have resulted in the increased importance of psychosocial issues on assessment, intervention and recovery. The subject will include the impact of cancer on the developmental stage of the individual, including family and interpersonal relationships, as well as issues related to survivorship and the management of cancer as a chronic illness. Professionals working in multidisciplinary cancer care teams are in a unique position to respond to the needs of people who have been diagnosed with cancer and their carers. This subject aims to strengthen their capacity to respond effectively and appropriately from a psychosocial service perspective.
Intended learning outcomes
Knowledge
On completion of the subject, students should be able to:
- Identify the implications for psychosocial functioning and quality of life across the life span for people living with cancer;
- Describe the role of community-based providers and the cancer care team in caring for cancer survivors, their carers, and families;
- Describe the psychosocial issues associated with cancer care in relation to policy development, service provision and evaluation, and research; and
- Identify psychosocial practice/intervention strategies relevant to working with cancer survivors.
Skills
On completion of the subject, students should be able to:
- Describe, utilise and illustrate foundational theories informing psychosocial practice in oncology;
- Discuss and critically evaluate methods of psychosocial practice in oncology; and
- Exhibit advanced analytic, integration and problem-solving skills in relation to the psychosocial issues presented by the person living with a diagnosis of cancer.
Application of Knowledge and Skills
On completion of the subject, students should be able to:
- Display advanced information and interpretation skills in providing relevant information to the multidisciplinary team; and
- Apply knowledge and skill in psychosocial practice in oncology with people across the lifespan.
Generic skills
Students will be provided with the opportunity to practice and reinforce:
- high level written communication skills
- advanced information and interpretation skills
- advanced analytic, integration and problem-solving skills
- demonstrate competence in critical and theoretical thinking through essay writing and online discussions
Last updated: 1 August 2024