Oncology Nursing Associations
Joining an oncology nursing association has a variety of benefits. Associations often serve as educational resources, keep their members up-to-date with the latest developments in the oncology profession and offer networking opportunities. Associations may also lobby for better work and pay conditions for their members.
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Oncology Nursing Society
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The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) consists of over 35,000 registered nurses (RNs) and other healthcare providers who are dedicated to advancing education, administration and patient care within the oncology field. ONS was created in 1975, following the first National Cancer Nursing Research Conference in 1973. It has since become a leader in cancer care with 231 chapters and 27 special interest groups. ONS is also actively involved with advocacy efforts at the local, state, national and international levels.
Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses
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The Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON) was created in 1974 and incorporated in 1776 by four nurses who were concerned with the oncology nurses' role in regard to children. At the time it was founded, no groups specialized in pediatric oncology. APHON holds an annual conference and works to develop educational materials. This organization is open to both RNs and allied health care practitioners who work in the field including pastoral care providers, social workers and child life specialists. As of April 2011, APHON has 3,200 members.
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Society of Gynecologic Nurse Oncologists
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The Society of Gynecologic Nurse Oncologists (SGNO) is an international association with a membership numbering over 600 nurses and affiliated professionals. The primary focus of SGNO is advocacy and outreach, education and research. The group holds an annual symposium and has completed work on several publications. Many members of the SGNO are involved with research, and the group has an established liaison who puts members in contact with each other.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology
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The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is not dedicated solely to nurses, but allows nurses to be members and has resources dedicated to the oncology nursing profession. ASCO was founded by a group of physicians in 1964 who saw the need for an establishment of an association solely dedicated to oncology. ASCO currently has over 30,000 members who are located in over 100 countries. ASCO is actively involved in research, education and public policy.
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References
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