Get in Touch
Direct Contact
University of Louisville
Interdisciplinary Program for Palliative Care & Chronic Illness
501 East Broadway, Suite 200B
Louisville, KY 40202
+1 (502) 852-3738
especo@louisville.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
Which training should I take — ESPEC Core or ESPEC Oncology?
ESPEC Core is designed for health social workers across practice settings who want to strengthen their primary palliative care competencies. It provides foundational training applicable to serious illness care broadly.
ESPEC Oncology is specifically designed for oncology social workers and includes cancer-focused content, implementation training, and structured mentorship support. Participation requires a competitive application process.
If you are an oncology social worker seeking deeper cancer-specific training and implementation support, ESPEC Oncology is likely the best fit. If you are a health social worker in another serious illness setting, ESPEC Core provides comprehensive primary palliative care education.
Is there a cost to participate?
ESPEC Core is available for a fee and can be selected at any time:
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Part I: $200
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Part II: $100
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Part III (Mentorship Sessions): No charge
ESPEC Oncology is funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and does not charge participant fees; however, it requires a formal application and acceptance into a cohort.
When can I apply for ESPEC Oncology?
ESPEC Oncology operates in structured cohorts due to federal funding support.
Cohort 2 applications will open in late spring 2026.
Details and application information will be posted on the website when available.
What does the training include?
Both ESPEC Core and ESPEC Oncology include:
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Evidence-based online learning modules
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Live interactive webinars
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Best Practice Guides and implementation tools
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Skill-building exercises and case applications
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Structured goal-setting for practice change
ESPEC Oncology additionally includes an intensive workshop experience and structured mentorship to support implementation in oncology settings.
How long does the training take?
Participants complete online modules at their own pace. Live sessions and workshops are scheduled in advance and communicated to participants upon enrollment. Mentorship sessions are offered regularly for continued learning and accountability.
Do I receive continuing education (CE) credit?
Yes. Continuing education credit is available for eligible participants. Details regarding CE eligibility and requirements are provided at registration.
What if I want to bring ESPEC Core or ESPEC Oncology to my institution?
We welcome institutional partnerships.
If you are interested in offering ESPEC Core or ESPEC Oncology at your organization, please contact us at:
especo@louisville.edu
Our team will discuss customization, implementation options, and partnership models.