CANCER REHABILITATION PROGRAM

More than 1 million people in the United States are currently receiving treatment for cancer. More than a half million people are considered cured of their disease, representing a survivorship of over 50 percent. Many of those who have received treatment to cure or control cancer have suffered significant physical, emotional and psychological impacts. Typical areas affected include mobility, self-care, emotional well-being, spirituality, vocational pursuits and social interactions.

The Cancer Rehabilitation Program helps individuals and their families learn to adapt to the effects of cancer and its treatment. The goal is to improve quality of life and to regain maximum independence.

Patients work with a physiatrist-lead interdisciplinary team that includes physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, nurses as well as a dietician, social worker, psychologist and chaplain. All team members are specially trained in - and dedicated to - working with people who have cancer.

Needs addressed by the cancer rehabilitation team include:

• Deconditioning and weakness
• Impairments in self-care
• Nutritional problems
• Lymphedema
• Spinal and brain injuries secondary to cancer
• Prosthetic fittings
• Evaluation of assistive devices and adaptive equipment
• Depression
• Grief counseling
• Pain

Patient and family educational and support services are also provided on a continual basis. Family therapy, which focuses on coping with a loved one's medical condition, is an integral part of the program. Patients are seen in the acute care, inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient settings.

For more information about the Cancer Rehabilitation Program, please call 800-634-2256 or e-mail.