Survivorship

Cancer treatment affects people in a variety of ways including; mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually and financially. Completing treatment creates a period of uncertainty and anxiety about “what next”. The goal of our survivorship program is to help answer the “what next” question, help with the transition back to pre-cancer roles, provide a treatment summary and follow up care plan, and assist in maximizing wellness and overall health.

We would like to ensure that our patients have the support that they need as they make the transition back to work and family roles. Patients will meet with an experienced oncology nurse practitioner at the conclusion of curative chemotherapy. Patients who are starting hormonal therapy will meet with the survivorship nurse practitioner. Patients who receive curative radiation will meet with an experienced radiation oncology nurse practitioner. 

The focus of the survivorship appointment is to discuss the treatment and side effects which may have occurred as well as potential latent side effects from the cancer treatments.  We will explain the recommended follow-up for routine health care as well as follow-up for your cancer which includes planned testing, exams, and routine cancer screening. We will also facilitate referrals for services within and outside of our practice which may be beneficial such as social work, cancer rehabilitation, physical fitness programs, and nutritional services for maximum wellness and health.

Related Readings

"Hope as a Strategy"  by Ernest Rosenbaum, M.D. and David Spiegel, M.D.