Nirali Desai7/21/2015BPA III: Health Resources Project

R11: Cancer Resources

Cancer resources in Georgia range from hospital-based programs to non-profit community based organizations for support, education, guidance, and additional resource information. Among non-profit organizations, Georgia CORE is one of the largest nonprofit enterprises that focus on enhancing collaborative cancer research among institutions and using the findings to improve access to cancer care. From Georgia CORE comes Georgiacancerinfo.org, which is the first online comprehensive cancer information center. Georgiacancerinfo.org provides information for city-specific programs; links to statewide and national organizations, like American Cancer Society and Cancer Patient Navigators of Georgia; and financial aid programs offered through the Georgia public health department and large pharmaceutical companies. Georgiacancerinfo.org also provides information (types of, phases, eligibility criteria, etc.) for ongoing clinical trials, as well as a link for finding local oncologists and treatment centers. The interactive, web-based approach to linking care and additional support demonstrates the future of community-based outreach and information dissemination. However, this modality may miss patients who do not use the Internet; therefore an integrative approach among hospitals, clinics, and other support programs would provide a vital resource for cancer patients.

Gwinnett Medical Center (GMC) and Suburban Hematology-Oncology Associates have combined to bridge the two organizations together and become the Center for Cancer Care. The Center for Cancer Care’s goal is to provide cutting edge treatment, raise awareness, and provide support via the Cancer Institute. The Cancer Institute is accredited by the Commission on Cancer, which is dedicated to providing patient-centered care through comprehensive services, like screening and early detection programs, diagnostic imaging and radiology, infusion services, radiation oncology and medical oncology services, surgical services, various support groups, healthy lifestyle programs, and rehabilitation services. The Cancer Institute also provides access to the American Cancer Society patient resource navigator, which offers emotional support; assists in finding local resources; coordinates transportation through the Road to Recovery program; and can assist with wig, prostheses, or other medical equipment requests. Cancer Institute patients are also connected to pain management clinics for conventional and alternative management options, nutritional education, and chaplain services within the GMC network. In addition to state funding opportunities, the Cancer Institute also provides financial assistance to those meeting certain income requirements.

The Cancer Institute was established one year ago and has served over 5,000 patients and caregivers. The support and educational classes are no-cost and specific programs include, the Women’s Cancer Support Group, Twisted Sisters Yoga for breast cancer patients or family members, Men to Men support group, Cancer Transitions workshop,

Nutrition and Cancer educational classes, and Caregivers support groups. The Cancer Transitions workshop is a unique 6-week program designed to help cancer survivors make the transition from active treatment to post-treatment care. Weekly panelists include, oncology nurses, oncology social workers, nutritionists, and fitness experts who discuss individualized exercise programs, healthy eating tips, and relaxation and stress management strategies. The Cancer Institute has also recently implemented the “Look Good, Feel Better” group workshop which teaches makeup application and hair/wig techniques to female cancer patients suffering from chemotherapy/radiation side effects. The Cancer Institute also promotes local community service activities, like the Lung Love 5K Walk for lung cancer survivors and caregivers; and the annual Relay for Life event.

The Center for Cancer Care and Cancer Institute provides a holistic approach to cancer therapy by targeting medical needs, as well as placing a significant focus on emotional and social support services for patients, families, and caregivers. The Cancer Institute prides itself on a comprehensive mind-body-spirit approach to cancer care. As a future healthcare provider, utilizing this multi-modal approach aimed at providing medical therapy and reducing stress and anxiety, as well as learning successful coping strategies, for both patient and loved ones is key to successful health outcomes.

References

Georgiacancerinfo.org (from Georgia CORE). http://www.georgiacancerinfo.org/about-georgia-cancer-info.aspx

“On a Good Note” newsletter. (2015). The Cancer Institute. Gwinnett Medical Center.

The American Cancer Society Patient Navigator. http://www.cancer.org/myacs/midwest/programsandservices/american-cancer-society-navigator?sitearea=COM

The Cancer Institute at Gwinnett Medical Center. http://www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/services/cancer-care/

The Georgia CORE. http://www.georgiacore.org/aboutUsmission.aspx