Dietitians
During or after treatment, concerns related to weight or diet sometimes occur. A specially trained Dietitian is available to help with:
- Weight loss
- Poor appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Sore or dry mouth or throat
- Taste changes
- Questions about special diet restrictions
- Difficulty swallowing
Dieticians help patients deal with these concerns by providing advice or by working with the physicians to prescribe medical interventions.
Spiritual and Pastoral Support
From time to time, patients and families find themselves searching for answers to difficult questions such as, “Why me?” “Where is God when I seem to need God the most?” A Chaplain is available to listen and help with spiritual concerns, to offer prayer and emotional support, and provide education related to grief and loss.
Oncology Social Workers
A diagnosis of cancer and subsequent cancer treatment can result in a period of adjustment and an increase in stress for patients and their families. Oncology social workers provide counseling and other services which can reduce stress for you and your family. They are available to assist with psychosocial, emotional, financial or other non-medical concerns that may follow a cancer diagnosis. They are trained to recognize the challenges in adjustment that often accompany the diagnosis of cancer and to assist in managing distress. Oncology Social Workers are also experts in linking patients and families to community resources and in providing advocacy to those with cancer. The goal of social work services is to use their expertise to help alleviate barriers to care and provide the support necessary for survivorship.
Clinical Research Coordinator
The Clinical Research Coordinator is the person responsible for conducting clinical trials using good clinical practice under the support of your oncology physician. The Clinical Research Coordinator directs and manages your care during a clinical trial and is a good contact for you if you have questions. The Clinical Research Coordinator will teach you about participation in the clinical trial including the Informed Consent and your rights, and will make sure the research protocol instructions are followed, teach you about side effects, and will ensure your information is kept confidential. They will be in touch with you throughout your participation in the trial to make sure all of your questions are answered. Many other members of your health care team will be involved in your care while you participate in a clinical trial in much the same way they would if you were not in a clinical trial.