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Oncology Wellness Program

A program to assist those undergoing cancer treatments

Young woman dressed in pink with her young family

WORKING TOGETHER TO HEAL THE WHOLE YOU

The HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Oncology Wellness Program assists those undergoing cancer treatments to improve their quality of care and quality of life from initial cancer diagnosis, through all stages of treatment, and after treatment is completed.  Studies have shown that exercise during and after cancer treatment is safe and results in improvements in physical function, activity level, and fatigue.

Pretreatment

  • Functional Assessment
  • Education – Posture, skin care, lymphedema precautions (if appropriate) and medical guidelines for safe exercise.
  • Home Exercise Program to minimize the mobility and strength deficits that may arise from treatment and assist in reducing cancer-related fatigue.

Rehabilitation

  • Evaluation by physical, occupational, or speech therapy to treat deficits from cancer treatment or surgeries.  
  • Home Exercise Program instruction within medical guidelines designed to combat cancer-related fatigue, pain and weakness and allow you to maintain independence with your daily activities.

Survivor Support and Wellness

  • Evaluation by physical, occupational, or speech therapy to reduce and limit any long-term effects that may arise and affect your physical function and empower you to be as active as possible.
Woman cancer patient with friends

Symptom support

Symptoms that Oncology Wellness can assist with:

  • Pain
  • Weakness
  • Tiredness (fatigue)
  • Neck and Shoulder Problems
  • Balance and Walking Difficulties
  • Memory and Concentration Issues
  • Swallowing and Speech Problems
  • Swelling (lymphedema)
  • Difficulties with Activities of Daily Living (self-care, functions at home)
  • Scar Tenderness/Tightness
  • Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome
  • Post-Surgical/Radiation/Chemo Range of Motion and Mobility Deficits
  • Bowel/Bladder Incontinence
  • Pelvic Pain
  • Chemo-Induced Neuropathy
  • Durable Medical Equipment Assessment and Recommendations

Getting a referral

In order to have Oncology Wellness services, a physician’s referral is required, typically from your family practitioner, oncologist, or surgeon.  St. Elizabeth’s accepts most insurances and your insurance benefits can be checked before your evaluation.

For questions or more information about how you may benefit from Cancer Rehabilitation, contact us at 618-624-3668.