Cancer Provider and Patient

What to Expect – Cancer Care

A cancer diagnosis comes with many questions and we want to help you find the answers you need. We are here to prepare you, make you feel comfortable and guide you as you go through treatment. Count on us to explain things and take care of the details so you can concentrate on getting better.

Your nurse navigator is your partner

Your path to recovery begins now. And you’ll always have someone by your side. Before you have your first treatment consultation, you’ll be paired with a nurse navigator whose job is to make life better for cancer patients.

Your navigator will be your regular point of contact. He or she will guide you and your family through the health care experience while explaining medical information, supporting your choices and removing barriers to timely care. In addition to helping you with cancer treatment, your navigator can connect you with services for:

  • Emotional support
  • Nutritional guidance
  • Financial counseling
  • Language interpretation
  • Support groups
  • Transportation options and more

Committed to your health and well-being

We’re committed to making you welcome and providing for you equally, regardless of your ability to pay, your race/ethnicity/sexual preference or the language you speak.

Understanding cancer treatment

Your cancer treatment plan will be as unique as you are. A team of cancer specialists will work together on the right plan for you, based on the type and stage of your cancer and other health and personal considerations. Your care plan will likely combine several treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery.

Learn about treatment for different types of cancers.

We welcome your questions

Let us know if you have questions about your symptoms, your treatment options and any side effects. Our cancer specialists are here to provide answers and support.

It helps to think through your questions in advance. Make a list and bring your questions to your appointments. You may also want to ask a friend or family member to go with you to write down the answers or ask questions you may not think of.

You may find these questions helpful as a starting point:

  • What is the extent (or stage) of my cancer?
  • What are my treatment options?
  • What are the goals and risks of each option?
  • What side effects should I expect?
  • When should I call you about side effects or concerns?
  • How will treatment affect my work and family life?
  • How can I learn more about my diagnosis and treatment?
  • How will we know if the treatment is working?
  • What haven’t I asked about that you think I need to know?

Education and support

You can also learn what to expect from articles, websites and people who’ve been there. Take advantage of educational resources and support groups for you, your family and your caregivers.

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