If you are one of the 1.5 million people who will learn this year they have cancer, remember you live in a time where more and more people are surviving cancer. And now, thanks to a brand new cancer treatment center staffed by a special team of cancer experts, you live in a place where more can be done to help you beat cancer than ever before.
Answers. Information. Treatment and Support.
Few things are as frightening as hearing you have cancer. And even fewer things have the power to make you feel so helpless and alone. That’s why The Cancer Team was created by Bellin Health to provide outstanding medical care and to give you support and access to people who will hold your hand through the process of making decisions, managing treatment and resuming your life on the other side of cancer therapy.
The cancer specialists who make up your team will include medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, therapists and dietitians. But we also offer psychologists and licensed counselors who are experienced in helping you maintain the mental and emotional strength you need during this time. Our Cancer Coaches are keenly aware of the resources you and your family will need during treatment and after--and they are adept at helping you get the assistance you need.
Together this team represents the individual skill, talent and experience you and your family need to battle cancer….Yet they work as one to try and ensure good communication takes place and that getting answers and undergoing treatment is as easy for you as possible.
Here, You have a team…and a Coach.
Ask cancer survivors about their experiences and you will often hear that the process of getting good information to make decisions is overwhelming and oftentimes difficult. This can heighten fears and lead to unnecessary anxiety. And many will tell you that being a cancer patient in a system that is not geared to meet the emotional needs of patients and family members can be frustrating.
That’s why The Cancer Team will assign you a Cancer Coach to help guide you through the entire process from precare to aftercare. Your Cancer Coach will be your advocate and the person who will make sure you get the information you want and need. They’ll work with the team to map out your personal treatment plan and support care; they’ll help coordinate and communicate at every turn.
Services provided by your Coach include:
- Scheduling and coordinating appointments to prevent needless waiting and decrease the number of visits you may need.
- Making sure lab work, x-rays and scans are completed so that results are available to your medical provider prior to your visit.
- Helping you find answers to questions and concerns and assist with medical and community resources.
- Act as a liaison between you and other team members.
- Providing education and information.
- Helping you with aftercare planning.
- Arranging second opinion services at The Cancer Team.
- Being your advocate and customizing services to meet your needs.
The Cancer Coach is a free service of Bellin Health System.
