Oncology Volunteers in a Comprehensive Cancer Center: An Observational Study of Compassion and Well-Being. Issue 1 (2nd January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mason, Tina M.; Reich, Richard R.; Whiting, Junmin
• Is Part Of: Hospital topics. Volume 100:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 7
• Publication Date: 2022-01-02
• Subjects: Compassion -- healthcare -- oncology volunteers -- triple aim -- well-being; Hospitals -- Administration -- Periodicals; Hospitals -- Periodicals; 362.11068
• DOI: 10.1080/00185868.2021.1899779
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0018-5868

Abstract

Abstract: A descriptive, cross sectional design was used to compare perceptions of compassion and well-being of volunteers with and without a personal history of cancer. Most (79%) were >60 years of age, female (63%), married (75%), White (88%), and Non-Hispanic (79%). Thirteen (54%) had a history of cancer; two were still on treatment. Compassion scores were similar between groups. Volunteers with a history of cancer scored higher ( p = 0.04) on General Well-being than those without a history of cancer. Understanding volunteer perceptions of compassion and well-being can guide our support structure and psychoeducation. Future studies could examine patient outcomes related to volunteerism.