Circle of Support

Cancer patients experience a number of important transitions during their care, from diagnosis through treatment and survivorship,” says Ruth Manzer, RN, OCN, cancer nurse coordinator. “We meet with patients face-to-face and make them aware of the many support services that are available to them at each point along the way. We want them to know they are not alone. We empower patients to set goals and make decisions about their own care. We are here to help them thrive.”

We empower patients to set goals and make decisions about their own care. We are here to help them thrive. — Ruth Manzer, RN, OCN

At UHS, cancer patients are supported every step of the way by a team of expert doctors, nurses, therapists and other specially-trained health care professionals. After diagnosis, dedicated cancer nurse coordinators and social workers consult with patients to provide a seamless route to complementary services that support their individual health and well-being.

When patients have finished treatment, Ms. Manzer helps them develop a personalized survivorship care plan. This includes referral to a wealth of community resources, and follow-up by Ms. Manzer if requested. The goal is to get patients back to doing their favorite activities and enjoying life, she says. “People are living longer lives with cancer, and sometimes it is managed like a chronic disease. If desired by the patient, we are available to follow his or her progress after treatment and provide a connection to resources as needs arise.”

Physical therapy

Throughout the continuum of cancer care, physical therapists measure each patient’s mobility status and energy level. Supervised therapeutic exercises aid patients in maintaining the range of motion, motor control and balance they had prior to treatment, as well as to help manage any cancer-related fatigue.

Occupational therapy

Occupational therapists assist patients in performing activities of daily life despite the limitations cancer or its treatment may cause. Therapy is tailored to the individual, with exercises and advice designed to help patients maintain their abilities and normalcy in their day-to-day life. This can include anything from showering and getting dressed to doing household chores and enjoying hobbies such as gardening and golf.

Nutrition therapy

The right diet is crucial to the health and well-being of cancer patients, but may be challenging when cancer or its treatment affects appetite, the sensation of taste or even the ability to eat. Nutritional therapists meet with patients individually to discuss diet, nutrition and supplements. They help patients maintain a healthy weight and energy level.

Speech therapy

Certified speech therapists specialize in helping patients restore and maintain speech capabilities. They also help patients restore weak or lost swallowing function. This service may be triggered by a referral from the patient’s doctor or other UHS cancer rehabilitation therapists, most often for those who are undergoing head and neck cancer treatment.

Lymphedema services

Patients who have had lymph nodes removed during treatment are at risk of lymphedema, a painful swelling of the associated limb. At UHS, patients are regularly assessed throughout their care to catch signs of lymphedema early, when it is most manageable. In therapy, patients may receive specialized massage to lessen swelling and learn techniques that can keep swelling under control and help maintain mobility in the affected limb.

Home care

UHS Home Care provides an array of in-home services for the approximately 90 percent of cancer patients who receive outpatient cancer care, and for those returning home after a hospital stay. Services include infusion, skilled nursing, maintenance of medical supplies and equipment, and rehabilitation therapies.”