Vision and Mission

History

The International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) was founded in 1984 to foster international multidisciplinary communication about clinical, educational and research issues that relate to the subspecialty of psycho-oncology. The Society sought to provide leadership and development of standards for education and research on the psychological, social and spiritual factors that affect the quality of life of cancer patients and their loved ones, and that influence tumor progression and survival. The aims of IPOS have been to foster training, encourage psychosocial principles and a humanistic approach in cancer care, and to stimulate research and develop training so psychosocial care may be integrated with all clinical oncologic specialties for optimal patient care.

Vision

IPOS fosters the science and practice of psychosocial oncology to improve the care for people affected by cancer worldwide.

Mission

The mission of IPOS is to promote global excellence in psychosocial care of people affected by cancer through partnerships, research, public policy, advocacy and education.

Purpose:

• To serve as an international body and forum for the dissemination of information to professionals and the general public about psycho-oncology, that is, the psychosocial (psychiatric, psychological, social, behavioural, ethical) and the psychobiological aspects of oncology;
  
• To foster excellence in clinical care, research and education in the specialty of psycho-oncology;
  
• To promote general meetings, conferences, workshops, regional meetings, publications and the exchange of information among those engaged in psycho-oncological research, cancer prevention and patient care;
  
• To advise international and regional agencies about policy issues related to psycho-oncology;
  
• To encourage and stimulate the formation of local, regional and national organizations that further the goals of IPOS; and
  
• To recognize exceptional contributions to the field of psycho-oncology through Distinguished Service or other awards.