Rochester Regional Health

Lauren Burling, LCSW, Social Work Supervisor and Collaborative Care Therapist
Earon Lehning, LMSW, Collaborative Care Therapist
Rochester Regional Health – Lipson Cancer Institute
Rochester, New York

Collaborative Care: A Model for Embedding Counseling in Oncology and Palliative Care

This cancer program adapted the University of Washington’s Collaborative Care model to embed counseling services into oncology and palliative care across six clinic locations. This model allows patients to receive counseling for depression, anxiety, or other psycho-social concerns while in active treatment and survivorship, eliminating many barriers to care. Counseling is provided in-person or virtually, ensuring that critical support and mental health care are accessible to all, including patients in rural areas and those who are homebound.

Collaborative Care: A Model for Embedding Counseling in Oncology and Palliative Care

For Lipson Cancer Institute providers, an embedded mental health program gives a clear, linear referral path. Providers know that once a referral is made, a social worker will reach out to the patient and talk about treatment options.
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