Breast Cancer Quality Indicators
Support Services for the Breast Cancer Patient
Support services include a variety of services and resources that help patients and their families deal with the diagnosis of breast cancer. Support services address the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs.
In 2004, in a joint publication, the Institute of Medicine and the National Research Council of the National Academies reported on the psychosocial needs of women with breast cancer. “Distress in cancer has been defined as an unpleasant emotional experience that may be psychological, social, or spiritual in nature.” Surveys suggest that about 10 to 30 percent of women with breast cancer have used psychosocial services. However, two-thirds of women indicate that they would accept such services if they were routinely offered. (Institute of Medicine , 2004: Meeting Psychosocial Needs of Women With Breast Cancer)
Does UVa provide support services for Breast Cancer patients?
Yes. UVa recognizes the importance of addressing the cancer-related patient needs by providing comprehensive support services, including:
- Emotional and psychological counseling for cancer patients and their families
- Special services directed to children of cancer patients
- Nutritional counseling
- Genetic counseling
- Support Groups
- Educational Programs
- Complementary/Integrative Care
- Stress reduction
- Tailored exercise and fitness programs
- Rehabilitation
- Long-term support and follow-up for cancer survivors
