National Healthcare Decisions Day exists to inspire, educate and empower the public & providers about the importance of advance care planning. National Healthcare Decisions Day is an initiative to encourage patients to express their wishes regarding healthcare and for providers and facilities to respect those wishes, whatever they may be. To celebrate this important day or recognition, we are discussing supportive care at the Joan Karnell Cancer Center at Pennsylvania Hospital.
A cancer diagnosis, cancer treatment, and side effects from cancer treatment can prove to be an overwhelming ordeal for many people. It’s important health care providers are able to help patients through the medical system, while assuring their values are met, and the burden of physical symptoms and emotional stress is eased.
The Supportive Oncology Clinic (SOC) at the Joan Karnell Cancer Center at Pennsylvania Hospital extends the reach of a patient’s oncologist to meet these needs by addressing the following issues:- Goals and coordination of care
- Emotional and family issues
- Financial and insurance concerns
- Work-related concerns
- Symptom management
Who Supports Patients?
The Supportive Oncology team consists of a palliative care physician, palliative care nurse practitioner and oncology social worker. Together, they work with patients to understand their values, priorities, and hopes for the future.The team may also include a patient’s loved ones and/or support persons in these important discussions so that the patient’s needs are met to the fullest extent possible. Shared understanding of patient values, goals and preferences helps the team work effectively with the patient’s oncologist as well, so patient care can be tailored appropriately even in the event that a patient can no longer speak for him or herself.
How the Supportive Oncology Team Works
The Team conducts a thorough assessment of the patient, and recommends treatment for symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, diminished appetite, constipation and fatigue.Because many patients who have cancer suffer non-physical hardships, the team provides emotional support for patients and families, and addresses practical concerns about finances, health insurance, and managing well in the home setting.
The team also discusses with patients their wishes for long-term care and arrangements including advanced directives and living wills.
Changing Care with Patients’ Needs
As a patient’s experiences, goals and needs evolve, the team helps with changes to the patient’s plan of care so that it best fits the patient’s desires and needs.For more information, or to schedule an appointment at the Supportive Oncology Clinic at the Joan Karnell Cancer Center at Pennsylvania Hospital, call 215-829-6466.
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