What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to identify barriers and facilitators to integrating mental health in oncology care and explore innovative strategies to address these challenges.

March 19, 2026

Integrating mental health in oncology a scoping review of barriers, facilitators, and innovative strategies

Key Points

The aim is to identify barriers and facilitators to integrating mental health in oncology care and explore innovative strategies to address these challenges.
Conducted a PRISMA-ScR/JBI-guided scoping review of peer-reviewed studies from 2011 to 2025.
Included studies focused on adults with cancer, survivors, caregivers, and oncology professionals.
Synthesized data using inductive thematic synthesis with tools like Covidence and NVivo.
Identified five key themes: persistent distress in survivorship, structural and cultural barriers, impacts on care and adherence, caregiver burden, and digital interventions.
Found that integrating mental health services could reduce inequities in cancer care.
Highlighted the need for routine screening and culturally tailored supports.

Abstract

Introduction: Psychological distress in cancer is common and linked to poorer adherence, higher utilization, and worse outcomes, making mental health integration a core component of effective oncology care. Methods: We completed a PRISMA-ScR/JBI-guided scoping review (OSF preregistered) of peer-reviewed studies (2011–2025; English/Scandinavian) searched in PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. PCC eligibility included adults with cancer/survivors, caregivers, and oncology professionals; data were synthesized using inductive thematic synthesis supported by Covidence and NVivo. Results: Twenty-eight studies were included. Five themes emerged: persistent distress across survivorship; structural, cultural and attitudinal barriers to service use; impacts on guideline-concordant care, adherence, utilization and survival; caregiver burden; and digital/innovative interventions. Discussion: Integrated models should embed routine screening, clinician-initiated pathways, culturally tailored supports, and hybrid digital services, alongside sustainable implementation outputs to reduce inequities and improve outcomes in practice.

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