Cancer Care
Supportive Care Clinic

Supportive Care is an integral part of St. Luke's MSTI's philosophy that healing comes from caring for the whole person, not just the disease. Our Supportive Care Clinic focuses on improving the quality of life for patients and their families by reducing the physical and emotional burdens of cancer.

The Supportive Care team is led by nurse practitioners, and includes oncology nurses, social workers, pharmacists, dietitians, and physical therapists. The team coordinates directly with your oncologist to provide:

• Symptom management
• Management of pain issues, fatigue, constipation, weight loss, weakness, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping, as well as mental or emotional symptoms such as confusion, depression, and anxiety. Integrative medicine referrals are available for acupuncture, massage, and yoga and movement classes.
• Supportive counseling and education
• Assessment of social, emotional, and mental health needs; nutritional and functional status; survivorship care planning; and specialty referrals such as spiritual care and local support groups and resources.
• Advanced care planning
• Assistance and support for patients and families as you cope with the issues and uncertainty that come with a cancer diagnosis. This may include the possibility of disease progression or recurrence, and making your wishes known in advance through a Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care

Why Use Supportive Care Services?
Supportive Care has been shown to be effective in helping manage the symptoms of cancer and decrease the side effects of treatment. The National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship and the American Cancer Society recommend that supportive care services begin near diagnosis and be incorporated throughout a patient's treatment course and cancer experience, including survivorship.

What Can I Expect from the Supportive Care Team?
Our team is dedicated to helping stabilize and strengthen patients physically, mentally, and emotionally. We can provide you with a comprehensive, individual assessment and treatment plan that will be developed and reviewed with your oncology team. Follow-up is available as needed and is integrated into your ongoing care plan.

Visits to St. Luke's MSTI's Supportive Care Clinic are billed just like your other clinic visits. If you have questions or concerns about coverage for these services, please call 381-2724.

To request a referral to the Supportive Care Clinic, talk with your oncologist or nurse, or call 381-2790 for more information.