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Abstract
Oncology social work stands as a critical pillar in healthcare services, especially with the surging incidence of cancer cases worldwide. This paper meticulously assesses the current state of oncology social work services in government healthcare facilities in Malaysia in response to the escalating local cancer cases. By using the five standards of oncology social work services (OSWS) outlined by the Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW), including qualifications, services to patients and families, services to institutions and agencies, services to the community, and services to the profession, as benchmarks, it underscores the indispensable need for OSWS in healthcare institutions. Through a comprehensive review of global research on OSWS development, this paper provides a compelling rationale for the vital components that advocate for the integration of OSWS in Malaysia's government healthcare facilities. This data catalyses the implementation of robust oncology social work services within Malaysia's government healthcare system.