A Conceptual Trauma-Informed and Ecological Framework for Integrating Caregivers into Healthcare Oncology Care Settings

Abstract

Caregivers play a central role across the cancer trajectory, yet their needs often remain insufficiently recognized within routine oncology workflows. This conceptual manuscript proposes a trauma-informed, ecological, and interprofessional model designed to support the systematic integration of caregivers into oncology care from the earliest stages of treatment. Guided by Ecological Systems Theory and trauma-informed care principles, the model conceptualizes caregiver distress as emerging from interacting sources that include medical uncertainty, emotional strain, changing family roles, and practical disruptions. The framework outlines mechanisms through which oncology teams may enhance caregiver visibility, communication, and psychosocial support by embedding structured screening, documentation, and interprofessional coordination into routine clinical practice. A clinical illustration demonstrates how early identification, trauma-informed communication, and collaborative care planning may reduce caregiver invisibility within oncology settings. Integration of caregivers into electronic health records, standardized assessment processes, and shared care planning has the potential to support more coordinated, equitable, and responsive psychosocial care. Overall, the model offers a theory-informed and practice-oriented framework intended to strengthen communication, promote caregiver recognition, and address persistent gaps in oncology caregiver support across the care continuum.