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Coordinated care: a team approach
Your cancer care team is made up of many different health care professionals
who have dedicated themselves exclusively to the care of people with cancer.
Their combined experience assures you of thorough and personalized cancer treatment,
which addresses your physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
Members of your cancer care team meet regularly to discuss your progress and
any additional care you may require or benefit from. The team will also provide
the support you and your family need to better understand and deal with your
illness.
Your cancer care team
You
You are the most important member of your cancer care team. You know and can
listen to what your body and inner self is telling you. That is why we may ask
you nearly as many questions as you ask us. Your understanding and active participation
throughout all phases of your care can have a profound impact on your treatment.
Your physician
The medical management of your care may be directed by a medical oncologist,
a physician trained in cancer treatment. Oncologists consult with your family
physician and other medical experts. Radiation oncologists, surgeons and other
physicians may be asked to consult with your cancer care team depending on the
type of cancer you have and your specific treatment plan.
Your nurses
Our highly trained and capable nursing staff combines a range of nursing skills
including clinical expertise, communication and management skills to respond
to your individual needs.
To give you maximum control over your therapy, our nurses will review and clarify
facts so that you and your family can make informed decisions about your treatment.
They will teach you ways to minimize treatment side effects so you can share
in the responsibility of your own care. And after your hospital stay, our nurses
and social workers help you make a smooth transition from the hospital to post
hospital care.
In addition to the ongoing care you receive from the nursing staff, nurses with
special oncology training may participate in providing your care. These may
include:
Oncology certified nurses (OCNs)
National certified oncology nurses dedicated to caring for patients with cancer.
Oncology clinical nurse specialist
Years of experience combined with a master’s degree in a nursing specialty and
continuing education are requirements for this nurse. They apply their knowledge
and skills in areas of chemotherapy, radiation, pain management, education and
other aspects of the patient’s plan of care.
Breast cancer clinical nurse specialist
The breast cancer clinical nurse specialist is a vital resource for women with
breast cancer. They educate women about cancer and available treatment options,
and provide support in identifying needs and navigation through the health care
system.
Nurse case coordinators
With special expertise in the care needs of people with various types of cancer,
these nurses work closely with patients and their care teams to help coordinate
the many facets of a complete care plan.
Outpatient chemotherapy nurses
These nurses have special training in the administration of cancer-fighting
drugs, commonly known as chemotherapy and other IV infusions, blood transfusions
or medication injections.
Home care/Hospice liaison nurses
These nurses coordinate your in-home treatment and care plans, including hospice
care. They also investigate sources of reimbursement for these services.
Other team members
Throughout your course of treatment you will come in contact with many professionals
representing a variety of different disciplines. Some of these professionals
and their areas of specialty include:
Dieticians
Dieticians provide assessment, counseling and assistance with dietary and nutritional
needs during treatment and ongoing care, such as taste changes, loss of appetite
and suggestions for meal preparation or supplemental nutrition.
Rehabilitation specialists
These therapists provide ongoing care to maximize your functional independence
and physical strength. This may include physical, occupational or speech/language
therapy.
Hospital social services staff
Social workers provide counseling and support for the many social and living
needs of you and your family.
Oncology outreach coordinator
After you leave the hospital, a licensed clinical social worker is available
to talk with you and your family about a variety of concerns, including individual
and family issues, transportation, financial matters, vocational assistance
and community resources.
Pharmacists
Pharmacists, in consultation with your oncologist, recommend strategies for
dealing with any treatment-related problems which may arise. They coordinate
chemotherapy preparation and are available to talk with you about your medications.
Chaplains
An integral part of the cancer care team, our chaplains are clinically trained
and certified to minister to your emotional and spiritual needs. They offer
special support to you and your loved ones.
Volunteers
Volunteers are specially trained, caring people who assist staff and help patients
and their families in the hospital and at home.
Genetic counselor
A genetic counselor is available to explore with you and your family, the risks
of a genetic basis for your cancer. If there appears to be a suspicious family
history, you may choose to request genetic testing. Counseling about increased
surveillance or specific actions can help you and your family in making decisions
that will minimize your risk.
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