A framework for oncology social work services scope of practice in Malaysia’s public healthcare system: Insights from practitioners

OBJECTIVE: The rising incidence of cancer in Malaysia underscores the necessity for specialized oncology social work services. Implementing a localized plan for these services would strengthen medical social workers' knowledge and skills, ultimately enhancing support for cancer patients and their families. METHODS: A total of 171 medical social work officers in public health facilities participated in a self-report survey. Additionally, five medical social work officers who directly work with cancer patients participated in in-depth interviews, and 30 primary caregivers of cancer patients participated in a focus group discussion. These participants provided perspectives on the requirements for Oncology Social Work Services in government health facilities in Malaysia. FINDINGS: The establishment of oncology social work services that incorporate the four scopes of practice defined by the Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW) within Malaysia's public health system is essential and creates opportunities for generalist medical social work officers to specialize in this critical field. CONCLUSION: Implementing a standardized oncology social work framework improve efficiency and enhancing clinical practice and discipline-specific responsibilities in psychosocial oncology.