Cancer Support Services

The Cancer Support Service is an integral part of the Baptist Cancer Institute.  We believe that support and rehabilitation of cancer patients is as necessary as diagnosis and treatment for complete care.  Because a diagnosis of cancer can affect your life in so many ways, the staff of Cancer Support Services is available to help you and your family from the time of diagnosis through the end of treatment and for as long as you need our services.

We begin by providing you and your family with educational information you need to better understand your disease and its treatment.  Once treatment begins, we offer continuing emotional support to you and your family.  If financial problems arise, we try to link you with resources for which you may be eligible.  We are available to help you deal with concerns during treatment or any time afterwards.

Educational Services

• Patient education individualized to meet your needs as either an inpatient or an outpatient
• Resource library of books, pamphlets and video tapes for your use
• General information about types of cancer, treatments, possible side effects, and ways to deal with treatments
• I CAN COPE, an education program presented twice a year by Baptist Hospital in conjunction with the American Cancer Society

Nutritional Services

• Nutrition counseling for patients and families
• Pantry of nutritional supplements for patients to sample

Financial Services

• Counseling for financial problems
• Assistance in obtaining necessary medications and equipment
• Referral to appropriate community agencies

Support Services

• Supportive counseling for patients and their families
• Support groups to meet specific patient needs
• Information on dealing with hair loss
• Information and assistance in obtaining prostheses for women who have had mastectomies
• Information and referral services for people calling or coming to Baptist Health Care Cancer Program

Prevention Services

• Presentation on cancer prevention individualized for community organizations and businesses
• Participation in community health promotion activities
• "Pop the Question" Cancer Risk Awareness information

Research

• Information on cancer research studies
• Participation in clinical trials for patients who meet eligibility requirements

• Your physician may refer you to the patient educator for education about your treatment.
• Your social worker or nurse may refer you to Cancer Support Services.
• You may attend I CAN COPE or join one of our support groups.
• You may call for information or come in for any of our services.
• Anyone who needs cancer-related information or assistance may use Cancer Support Services.