Patient Support
There are many resources to help those with breast cancer. Some patients may want more outside support while others prefer the support of family and friends.
Our medical social workers:
- Offer emotional support to patients and families to adjust to a new diagnosis, and support coping skills while living with cancer
- Provides information and referrals to supportive programs within the community
- Develops care plans with patients and families to address psychosocial barriers to care
Benefits of support:
- Reduced anxiety and psychological distress
- Reduced depression and feelings of pain
- Improved mood, self-image
- Improved ability to cope
- Better treatment compliance and outcomes
UI Health's Patient Support Program also offers:
Distress Screening
At pivotal points in their treatment patients are invited to indicate, via a written questionnaire, if they are experiencing any significant psychosocial, physical, or spiritual concerns. They will have a chance to review these concerns with a social worker and/or their physician to try and alleviate the distress or be connected with an outside resource that may assist. This is free to all patients and is a standard of care.
Survivor Empowerment Network
Monthly support and networking group for survivors of all cancers who are post- active treatment. Meetings are free and are typically held the last Wednesday of every month from 5:30-7:00pm at the Miles Square Health Center (1220 S Wood St). This is a discussion based group focused on adjusting to life after cancer, and how patients can prevent risk of cancer reoccurrence. Please call ahead to confirm dates and times to Ana Gordon, LSW 312.355.0537.
Cancer Partnerships
American Cancer Society
UI Health has an onsite bilingual patient navigator who is part of the American Cancer Society and offers assistance to reduce barriers to care such as:
- transportation
- lodging
- insurance and billing questions
- scheduling assistance
- and more
Our patient navigator also provides resources and information in the Cancer Resource Center. It is located in the waiting area of the Caner Clinic and bilingual printed materials from American Cancer Society are available for free. In addition, "Look Good Feel Better" sessions are held for women undergoing cancer treatment on the last Monday of each month and Neriza can connect patients with wigs, hats and prosthesis resources for free. Please call Neriza Dumayas, LCSW for more information at 312.355.4596.
Immerman Angels
Immerman Angels provides personalized free one-on-one cancer support for cancer fighters, survivors, and their caregivers. You are paired with a Mentor Angel who is a cancer survivor or caregiver who is the same age, same gender, and has faced the same type of cancer. Mentor Angels can lend emotional support, relate from their own experiences, and help cancer fighters and caregivers feel less alone while navigating the system. Immerman Angels hosts their signature Sweet Treat Social once a month in the lobby of the cancer center, giving you a chance to ask questions in person.
