Ethical and Legal Issues in Oncology and Palliative Care Social Work

Abstract

Abstract This chapter considers the complex moral, legal, and ethical landscape of health care and the intersection of clinical care, organizational structures, policies, and processes in oncology and palliative care social work. The patient experience as well as those of health care workers are impacted by the ethical climate in which care is delivered. Understanding both the legal context and ethical principles as they are applied in patient care from screening and treatment through survivorship and beyond is essential. Social workers may encounter ethical dilemmas in practice that can contribute to distress, and mitigation of this experience can occur on both the individual and institutional level. Fierce dedication to enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, and communities positions social workers to be leaders in creating balanced policies that dismantle social inequalities and health inequities.