Patient Support
UI Health has many resources to help patients undergoing treatment for colorectal cancers. Our clinical social workers provide a variety of support and assistances to cancer patients. Our social workers are available to offer emotional support to patients and families as they adjust to a new diagnosis. Our team works with patients to help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress, and improve patients' ability to cope with their disease. The social workers also can provide information and referrals to supportive programs within the community. Our goal is to develop care plans with patients and families to address psychosocial barriers to care.
Through the American Cancer Society, UI Health has an on-site bilingual patient navigator and offers assistance to help reduce barriers to care, including transportation, lodging, insurance and billing questions, scheduling assistance, and more.Support Group
Support Group
UI Health sponsors monthly support and networking groups for survivors of all cancers who are post-active in treatment. This is a discussion-based group focused on adjusting to life after cancer and how patients can prevent
UI Health sponsors monthly support and networking groups for survivors of all cancers who are post-active in treatment. This is a discussion-based group focused on adjusting to life after cancer and how patients can prevent risk of cancer reoccurrence.
The meetings are free and are typically held the last Wednesday of every month, from 5:30-7 pm at the Mile Square Health Center (1220 S Wood St, Chicago IL).
Social Work Team
Anna Gordon - 312.355.0537
Neriza Dumayas (Patient Navigator) -312.355.4596
Genetics
Familial Colorectal Cancer Genetic Program
If you have cancer that runs in your family or were diagnosed at a young age, you may be a candidate for genetic screening. Genetic screening, also known as genetic testing, is the sequencing of human DNA in order to discover genetics differences, anomalies, or mutations that might be pathological. Genetic screening helps to determine if a bloodline is at risk for developing or inheriting diseases.
GI Genetics Clinic
Clinic Hours: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays — 8:30 am to 3:30pm
To schedule an appointment or to follow up on testing, please call 312.355.3493.
Genetic Counselors
Our genetic counselors are able to advise you on your needs for additional testing based on your family history and help you understand the consequences of testing.
Lara Balay, MS Ed, CGC
Tara Maga, PhD, CGC
Palliative/Supportive Care
Palliative and Supportive care is patient and family-centered care that helps anticipate, prevent, and treat suffering and pain. Supportive care starts at the time of diagnosis and involves addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
