Integrated Oncology: Social Science and Clinical Research Perspectives Across the Cancer Continuum (KISC)

4 units

This course aims to provide learners with experiences that will foster their ability to gain a broad knowledge base regarding the social science aspects of cancer care. The course will take the student on a journey through the spectrum of cancer care, including foundational social science frameworks, cutting-edge applied translational science, and the impact of cancer and cancer care on the community. The student will be exposed to a diverse array of topics, including strategies for cancer screening and management as well as structural factors influencing the delivery of care. Activities will include lectures from local experts, readings, discussions, and, critically, exposure to clinical and community activities. Central to this course is social science as a foundational science applied and integrated to topics throughout the cancer continuum. There will be a strong emphasis on health equity principles (e.g., the equal worth of all human beings and nondiscrimination and equality in opportunities to achieve optimal health). Assignments will include reflections and analysis that can be completed through a variety of methods including writing, audio, or video recording. A longitudinal case study will enable the student to tailor their experience to a specific oncologic interest and delve into the primary literature to understand the cancer continuum and how it applies to cancer care. Learners will gain a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the rich variety of social and scientific factors that shape the health and well-being of patients with cancer. This understanding, in turn, will translate into more effective and equitable cancer care.