Psychosocial Support Focusing on Chronic Illness & Pediatric Oncology

Introduction  

Supporting Families. Strengthening Care. Transforming Pediatric Oncology.

Pediatric cancer isn’t just a medical diagnosis; it’s an emotional, social, and psychological crisis for the entire family. As a healthcare provider, you often witness this firsthand but may not always feel equipped to address what patients and caregivers are silently going through.

This course is designed for frontline providers like you! Doctors, residents, and medical officers who care deeply about delivering more than just clinical treatment. Led by national and international experts, including faculty from Indus Hospital & Health Network and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, this interactive online course gives you the practical tools, language, and strategies to:

  • Identify emotional and social red flags in patients and families
  •  Communicate effectively in distressing situations
  • Know when and how to refer for psychosocial support
  • Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams for truly holistic care
  • And most importantly, feel confident supporting patients and caregivers beyond the bedside.

You’ll learn through real cases, expert-guided modules, and skill-building activities across topics such as:

  • Psychosocial stressors in childhood cancer
  • Family dynamics and caregiver burnout
  • Culturally sensitive communication
  • Practical assessment and intervention strategies
  • The healthcare provider’s own emotional well-being

If you’ve ever wished you had better tools to support the psychological side of cancer care, this course is built for you.
Join us in transforming pediatric oncology care through compassionate, evidence-informed psychosocial support.

Program Details 

  • Duration: 2 months
  • Certificate/Diploma/Degree: Certificate
  • Mode of Education: Online/LMS
  • Classes in a Week: One class in a week
  • Duration of Class: 45-60 min

Course Organizers

  • Course Director:  Ms. Asma Naheed – Deputy Manager, Psychosocial, Indus University Hospital.
  • Course Co-Director: Dr. Valerie Crabtree – St. Jude Faculty Chief, Psychosocial Services.

Certificate Awarding Authority

IUHS-Logo IHHN-Logo St. Jude logo

For More Information

Extension: 3159

Email: [email protected] and [email protected]

This course will be delivered entirely online using a blend of live interactive webinars, prerecorded lectures, and self-paced e-learning modules. Participants will engage in virtual case-based discussions and role-play exercises via video conferencing to practice assessment and communication skills in real time. Reflective journaling, online discussion boards, and downloadable resources will support deeper learning and application to practice.

Program Objectives

  • To build healthcare providers’ knowledge of the psychosocial impact of chronic illness on patients and families.
  • To develop skills in identifying psychological and social stressors through assessment and observation.
  • To enhance communication techniques for effectively addressing sensitive issues and supporting families.
  • To equip participants with strategies for providing or coordinating appropriate psychosocial interventions and referrals.
  • To promote self-care practices and resilience among healthcare providers working in emotionally demanding settings.

Scope of Practice

This course equips healthcare providers to recognize, assess, and respond to the psychosocial needs of patients and families facing chronic illness. Participants will be able to identify signs of psychological distress and social challenges, provide basic emotional support, communicate effectively about sensitive topics, and make timely referrals to specialized psychosocial services. While the course does not qualify participants to deliver formal psychotherapy, it prepares them to integrate psychosocial awareness into routine care and collaborate effectively with mental health professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Eligibility Criteria

  • MBBS or equivalent medical degree
  • Pediatric or Family Medicine Resident
  • MCPS/FCPS in Pediatrics or Family Medicine

Who Can Apply

  • MBBS degree holders
  • Pediatric or Family Medicine residents
  • Holders of MCPS in Pediatrics or Family Medicine
  • Holders of FCPS in Pediatrics or Family Medicine
  • MD degree holders
  • DCH (Diploma in Child Health) holders
  • Registered Nursed
  • Exceptional cases from psychosocial or allied healthcare fields may be considered upon request and based on availability of seat.

Documents Required

  • NIC
  • Photograph

Key Dates

  • Tentative Course Closing Month: October 2025
  • Tentative Start Month: August 2025
  • Registration End date: 15th August 2025

Fee Structure

  • IHHN / IUHS Employees (Internal): Rs. 7,500
  • Non- IHHN / IUHS (External): Rs. 10, 500