A group program for cancer patients and their family members in an acute care teaching hospital.

An open-ended information/support group program for cancer patients and family members is described. The leadership role of the social work authors in developing the program, facilitating the sessions, adapting it to the limitations of an acute care teaching hospital, coordinating and training the multidisciplinary staff, and dealing with problem behaviors within the group sessions are discussed. Consumer satisfaction survey results are presented. The authors believe the program provides a helpful service to patients and families and a valuable opportunity for staff and students to become more sensitive health professionals through increased understanding of the psychosocial aspects of chronic illness.