Support Services at the Asplundh Cancer Pavilion
The Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Abington – Jefferson Health has a wide array of support services designed to help you and your family manage life with cancer. Services and programs provided in dedicated areas within the Pavilion or on a referral basis include:
Symptom Support Program
Some patients experience side effects of cancer and some of its treatments and need timely care fast to manage their symptoms. With a triage area designated specifically for these patients at the Asplundh Cancer Pavilion, a certified oncology nurse practitioner, in collaboration with the treating physician, provides rapid assessment and intervention. Through this program, patients can avoid the stress of an emergency room visit and have access to the care they need.
Survivorship Program
To address lifelong needs unique to cancer survivors, the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Abington – Jefferson Health has established the Survivorship Program at the Asplundh Cancer Pavilion. A certified oncology nurse practitioner helps patients transition to life after cancer treatment, connecting them to ongoing care with their physicians and the specialists who will continue to monitor them and provide care. The program also emphasizes well-being by promoting a variety of social and wellness group activities.
Genetic Risk Assessment and Counseling
For patients and community members concerned about a family or personal history of breast, ovarian, uterine or colorectal cancer, a physician who specializes in genetic counseling and a nurse genetic counselor provide a free cancer genetic risk assessment. The physician and nurse review each case to determine if the individual is eligible for high-risk surveillance, and/or specific studies and genetic testing. If our team determines you may be at higher risk for certain types of cancers, we have robust relationships with specialty physicians and can provide referrals for such subspecialties as gynecologic oncology and surgery, breast surgery, and gastrointestinal oncology and surgery. If a genetic mutation is found, guidance is provided to help you make informed choices regarding current standard treatment options. If you have a gene mutation for which there is no known current therapy, we offer the opportunity to participate (as qualified) in clinical trials at Abington, which are integrated with the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center – Jefferson Health.
Fertility Preservation
Whether you are a woman or man who has been diagnosed with cancer and you have considered conceiving a pregnancy at some point in your life, talk with your oncologist before beginning treatment.
Because treatments can affect your reproductive health and fertility, you may want to explore options for fertility preservation prior to starting treatment. If you’ve already undergone cancer treatment, you might be interested in your options for assisted reproductive methods. Your nurse navigator can help you schedule a consultation with a reproductive endocrinologist at Abington – Jefferson Health.
Financial Counseling
Our financial counselor works with patients and their families to help them understand their insurance plans (deductibles, out-of-pocket expenses, copays, and more) and financial responsibilities. The counselor will help you apply for financial assistance (if you are eligible) or seek financial support from other sources (such as programs that provide assistance for the cost of medication) if needed. You can meet with the counselor throughout treatment to address ongoing financial concerns.
Cancer Support Community of Greater Philadelphia
Cancer Support Community of Greater Philadelphia at Abington – Jefferson Health provides cancer support including such services as support groups, workshops, lectures and social events for those living with cancer and their loved ones.
Palliative Care
Our counselor coordinates palliative care to support patients with chronic, progressively limiting or advanced cancer. The team focuses on meeting the medical, emotional and spiritual needs of patients and their families. These clinicians provide excellent pain and symptom management, facilitate discussions about treatment options and support patients in the decision-making process.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 215-481-4000.
