Patient Support

 

Patient Navigator

In 2010, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at TGMC expanded the scope of its cancer services by adding a Patient Navigator to help patients and their families handle the many facets of the journey to recovery. The Patient Navigator, a registered nurse, assists each patient to ensure seamless care throughout treatment, recovery and survivorship.

 

Social Workers

Oncology social workers are vital members of the healthcare team and perform various duties depending on patient and family needs. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at TGMC oncology social workers provide:
 

Oncology social workers are advocates for patients and families, helping them get the services they need. They also understand the special factors such as ethnicity, spirituality and family issues that may influence how patients are dealing with their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at TGMC provides support groups, supplies such as wigs and turbans, chemotherapy classes, educational community events and an adult camp for cancer survivors.

Dietician

Good nutrition and healthy eating are essential for patients to have the necessary energy to fight cancer. Clinical dieticians on the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center at TGMC staff help patients maintain their nutrition and strength while undergoing treatment. Recommendations are made regarding the most appropriate and easily tolerated foods, keeping in mind the side effects of cancer treatment and the importance of maximizing nutrition.

 

Support Groups



At Mary Bird Perkins at TGMC, we believe support groups are a strong part of the emotional and physiological healing process. That’s why various cancer support groups are offered along with cancer recognition events throughout the year: