Ginny Vaitones, MSW, OSW-C, is certified as an oncology social worker.  A member of the staff of the Cancer Care Center at Penobscot Bay Medical Center, Vaitones has been working in the field of oncology, palliative care and hospice since 1974.

Vaitones received her undergraduate degree from Springfield CollegeSimmons College. She has received her certification from the Board of Oncology Social Work Certification.

 She has worked for Maine General, Health Reach Network and YorkHospital. She has been a leader in the field of oncology social work, having served as president of the Association of Oncology Social Work. Vaitones currently is a member of the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer representing the Association of Oncology Social Work. She serves on the Approvals Committee, Program Review Subcommittee and Conference Planning Committee.

 Vaitones is a reviewer for the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the National Cancer Institute patient education booklet series. She has authored two booklets: "What to Expect from a Cancer Diagnosis in the Family: A Teen's Guide" and "Hospice in Long Term Care Facilities."

Vaitones runs support groups and provides counseling to patients and their families as they adjust to living with a cancer diagnosis. She also helps provide access to information about insurance coverage, disability, medication coverage and transportation.

Other services provided by the oncology social worker are:

• Information related to transportation for cancer treatments.
  
• Access educational  information to help you understand your diagnosis and treatments.
• Cope with your diagnosis of cancer and the many emotions you may be experiencing or your family may be experiencing.
• Consider decisions about treatments options as you think about your work, family, and other things in your life.
• Understand social security benefits, disability benefits, and insurance coverage.
• Apply for programs that offer financial or prescription drug assistance.
• Workplace and school education and consultation.
• Life as a cancer survivor.