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One of the most significant social determinants of health is housing, which can lead to prolonged hospital stays and an endless cycle of episodic care. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is dedicated to highlighting programs that address this disparity to improve medical outcomes and restore stability to patients’ lives. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Deirdre Sekulic, associate director of social work at Montefiore Health System to discuss ways that HARP prioritizes patient outcomes to improve continuity of care.
“We really wanted to focus on coordinating health and housing and putting in a support system to manage those patients better, get them linked to primary care so they would have better health outcomes and also to improve the flow of people into the emergency room and into the hospital” – Deirdre Sekulic
“Housing is complex, never be afraid to ask people about their housing situation… ask them that in a very dignified manner, but to make sure to ask the question.” – Deirdre Sekulic
Guests:
Deirdre Sekulic, LCSW
Associate Director of Social Work
Montefiore Health System
Resources:
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.
July 8, 2026
June 30, 2026
At the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting, the Louisiana Oncology Society received the ASCO Jeffrey C Ward Affiliate Advocacy Award for advancing critical advocacy priorities that have translated into meaningful legislative victories. The Iowa Oncology Society and Washington State Medical Oncology Society were also recognized for their advocacy efforts in 2025 at the meeting, receiving second place awards.
