Verulava, TengizAsatiani, TinatinJorbenadze, RevazDangadze, Beka2020-06-282020-06-282019Tengiz Verulava, Tinatin Asatiani T, Beka Dangadze, Revaz Jorbenadze. The role of social workers in pediatric oncology. Archives of the Balkan Medical Union 2019;54(2):315-319.2558-815Xhttps://dspace.tsu.ge/handle/123456789/612Introduction. In the past years, the role of social workers in the oncological disease treatment processes has significantly increased. The role implies supporting patient’s psychosocial conditions. This study aims at studying psycho-social challenges of oncological children and their families and defining a role of social work in this area. Methods. As part of a qualitative study, five interviews were conducted with pediatric oncologists, also 15 in-depth interviews with family members of oncological patients and a focus group with 8 members. For the quantitative study, 62 beneficiaries and 12 medical specialists were interviewed. Results. The children with oncology conditions and their families faced psycho-social challenges and were in need of social workers’ support in overcoming those challenges. The study demonstrated a low level of public awareness. There is a lack of information among both doctors and beneficiaries. Both psychologists and social workers are involved in re-socialization of oncological children and they care for the improvement of children’s quality of life and support their families. However, there are only a few of such organizations. Therefore, many people who need their support have no chance to take such services. Conclusion. Implementing the social work in the pediatric oncology will be a major step toward the medical quality standards.enpediatric oncologychildhood cancersocial workerArticle