Lipson Cancer Institute adapted the University of Washington’s Collaborative Care model to embed counseling services into oncology and palliative care across 6 clinic locations.
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Lipson Cancer Institute adapted the University of Washington’s Collaborative Care model to embed counseling services into oncology and palliative care across 6 clinic locations. This model allows patients with cancer to receive counseling for depression, anxiety, and 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.
Earon Lehning, LMSW, Collaborative Care Therapist
Rochester Regional Health – Lipson Cancer Institute
Rochester, New York
"When our social work team meets with patients…and identifies a mood concern, they are able to put someone on my schedule within the next 2 days for an intake, compared to [services] in the community where it might take months to connect with a mental health provider."
This podcast is part of a special series with the 2023 ACCC Innovator Award winners. For a deeper dive into this and other content that will help your team reimagine how care is delivered at your cancer program or practice, register today for the ACCC 40th National Oncology Conference, Oct. 4-6, in Austin Texas.
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s)/faculty member(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of their employer(s) or the Association of Cancer Care Centers.
September 10, 2026
