Virtual mental health and addiction care provider Forge Health is expanding its oncology program with a strong focus on integrated mental health and cancer care, recognizing the vital connection between emotional well-being and cancer treatment. This expanded program will offer patients access to behavioral health services both virtually and in-person, providing comprehensive support that addresses the complex challenges faced by cancer patients and their caregivers.
The Importance of Integrated Mental Health and Cancer Care
Integrated mental health and cancer care is increasingly critical as patients navigating oncology treatments often face significant psychological stress, anxiety, and depression alongside their physical health battles. By offering accessible behavioral health support, Forge Health aims to improve overall patient outcomes and quality of life throughout the cancer journey.
Specialized Support for Veterans and First Responders
A distinct emphasis of this program is its commitment to first responders and veterans, particularly those whose cancer diagnoses are linked to hazardous material exposures, such as burn pits. These populations face unique challenges, and Forge Health’s oncology program is designed to provide specialized care that integrates mental health support with cancer treatment.
“Our team is deeply rooted in the commitment to serve veterans and first responders, a mission integral to Forge Health’s founding ethos,” said Eric Golnick, CEO of Forge Health’s Veteran and First Responder division. “As someone who actively championed the PACT Act and as a veteran, I’ve witnessed the toll that burn pit exposure has taken on my peers—too many of whom are now battling cancer. Our program embodies this dedication, delivering the respect, care, and support they deserve through integrated services.”
Forge Health’s Hybrid Care Model
Headquartered in White Plains, New York, Forge Health operates as a hybrid mental health and addiction care provider. Its approach to integrated mental health and cancer care utilizes a value-based care model, multidisciplinary care teams, and patient analytics to deliver personalized, streamlined treatment for patients managing multiple conditions.
Industry Trends Toward Integration
The expansion reflects a growing trend in healthcare. More providers and payers recognize the importance of integrated mental health and cancer care models. For example, Rush University Medical Center’s Support Oncology Program brings together social workers, psychiatrists, dietitians, and chaplains to provide holistic cancer care that incorporates behavioral health.
Research Supporting Integrated Care
Research supports the value of this integrated approach. The Evernorth Research Institute found that cancer patients who do not receive outpatient behavioral health services are twice as likely to have avoidable emergency room visits compared to those who do. This lack of integrated care can increase costs by $173 to $243 per member annually. These findings highlight how integrated mental health and cancer care not only improves patient health but also reduces unnecessary healthcare spending.
Support for Caregivers in Cancer Treatment
Forge Health’s oncology program expansion also includes support for caregivers, who are often overlooked despite facing considerable emotional strain. Offering counseling and mental health resources for caregivers is an essential component of truly integrated cancer care.
A New Standard in Oncology Care
As integrated mental health and cancer treatment continues to gain momentum, Forge Health is setting a powerful example by providing flexible, accessible behavioral health services tailored to the oncology population. The hybrid model, with both virtual and in-person options, ensures patients and their families can access the support they need when they need it most.
By addressing mental health alongside cancer treatment—especially for vulnerable veterans and first responders—Forge Health’s program is helping to transform how oncology care is delivered. This comprehensive model honors the whole patient, leading to better health outcomes and a more compassionate cancer care experience.
