Support Services
Patients at Carle Cancer Center have access to a variety of unique support services, including:
- Social workers
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Our licensed oncology social workers are available to provide counseling and support for patient and family members throughout the cancer journey, connecting patients with community resources and financial assistance, serving as patient advocates and assisting with care planning. The resources the oncology social workers assist with include:
- Transportation to and from appointments
- Prescription assistance
- Financial assistance
- Free wigs and hats
- Family Medical Leave of Absence (FMLA)
- Social Security Disability or SSI
- Care planning (home care, assisted living, nursing home, hospice)
- Advanced directives (health care power of attorney, living will, DNR)
- Housing resource referrals
- Energy assistance
- Nurse navigators
- These registered nurses can assist with coordinating appointments with care team, communicating patient needs and concerns to physicians, answering questions regarding test results, side effects and treatment options and individualized education and support.
- Support groups
- These groups allow patients, cancer survivors and caregivers to meet and discuss the emotional aspects of living with cancer. All groups are free and open to all patients, regardless of where patients receive treatment. View all cancer support group listings »
- Complimentary Services
- Classes include yoga for cancer survivors, Info 2 Know – monthly informational sessions for patients with cancer, family, friends and caregivers and Look Good Feel Better® sessions provided by the American Cancer Society. Check our list of upcoming events for dates, times and locations.
- Nutrition counseling
- A registered dietitian recommends nutritional options to enhance patients' health and counteract negative side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
- Genetic counseling
- A licensed genetic counselor assesses the risk of those with family history of cancer and helps make decisions about screenings, preventive treatments or surgeries.
- Carle Home Health Services
- These services include home care, hospice and home infusion. Learn more about Carle home health services »
- Medical equipment
- The Letha Neil Loan Closet offers eligible patients equipment, such as commodes, shower chairs and walkers, to enable them to live as independently as possible in their homes.
- Lymphadema services
- Lymphadema can be a side effect of cancer treatment. Lymphadema treatment services are provided by Carle Therapy Services and are available by physician referral.
- Valet parking
- Carle Cancer Center offers patients free valet parking right outside the main entrance.
- Transportation
- Carle Cancer Center works with volunteers from the American Cancer Society and other community agencies to provide transportation to appointments within Champaign County.