Abstract
281 Background: Treating cancer patients requires a comprehensive approach extending beyond their medical needs. Patients may have issues with legal implications, which, if not addressed, hinder ones’ ability to focus on their care. The objective in establishing a medical legal partnership program is to create a mechanism for identifying such issues and developing plans for resolution. Brought to the organization’s attention by a newly recruited gynecological oncologist, a collaborative, interdisciplinary program was developed that provides resources necessary to address legal problems such as custody, employment rights, and disability. This reduces the burden on patients and families and improves the quality of life during and after cancer treatment. Methods: The Medical Legal Partnership Program was established under the guidance of a gynecologic oncologist cancer service line administrator, social work department and representatives from legal Aid of Nebraska and Iowa Legal Aid. A memorandum of understanding was signed and the team crafted a process to provide support. This included determining issues in which legal counsel is critical, appropriate patient idenitification, communication strategies, and follow up support. Results: Results include: since the inception of the program in FY 2010 to FY 2013 (to date), 271 patients have been served; a variety of legal issues have been resolved including custody designation, receipt of appropriate benefits, development of wills, and identification of end of life issues; at program inception, one attorney worked one day/ week with a part-time paralegal; in FY 2013, assistance has grown to 20 hours/ week of attorney coverage and a full-time paralegal; and over $250,000 health care dollars have been recovered. Conclusions: Development of a medical legal partnership program has resulted in addressing legal needs that arise during a cancer patient’s course of treatment, reducing their burden to find assistance. It provides an opportunity to recover health care dollars from denied/ unpaid sources and enhances the health care team’s understanding of the important role legal support plays in cancer care.
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