Editor’s note: This article is courtesy of AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute.
Did you know that AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute is now affiliated with Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute?
This new affiliation offers the greater Southern New Jersey region unparalleled access to advanced research, clinical trials, tumor review boards and second opinions from world-renowned Cleveland Clinic cancer experts in consultation with our team in Cape May Court House and Egg Harbor Township.
Through this affiliation, southeastern New Jersey residents will have streamlined access to national experts, providing a care plan that includes the latest advances in cancer treatment.
Be Your Own Advocate
When faced with such a life-altering diagnosis such as breast cancer, it is crucial to be your own advocate throughout the journey of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Advocacy starts with education, knowing your options and ensuring your voice is heard in the decisions about your care; not everyone feels equipped to advocate for themselves. In those cases, seeking a healthcare partner with dedicated nurse navigators such as the team at AtlantiCare can be invaluable.
Once diagnosed, take the time to understand your diagnosis. Ask questions about your treatment options, the benefits and risks of each, and how they will impact your quality of life. It’s important to feel empowered to make informed decisions and to ensure that your medical team supports your choices. Don’t hesitate to seek second opinions or to ask for more time to consider your options.
Nurse Navigators: By Your Side Every Step
The emotional, physical, and mental toll of any cancer diagnosis can leave patients feeling lost, scared, and unsure of how to move forward. Having a strong support system within your healthcare team can make a significant difference; especially when advanced, high-level care is available so close to home. AtlantiCare’s dedicated nurse navigators and certified oncology nurses provide that support and more:
– Coordinated Care: nurse navigators work together with a multidisciplinary oncology team to ensure your care is seamless and comprehensive.
– Education: Knowledge is power. AtlantiCare’s team of nurse navigators will help educate you and your loved ones about the cancer diagnosis, various treatment options, clinical trials, support services, second opinions, and more. It’s important to feel empowered to make informed decisions about your health.
– Resource Connection: The nurse navigator and their teams will connect you with the necessary resources and support services you need during your treatment. This includes helping you access social workers, dietitians, transportation services, and any other resources that can make your journey more manageable.
– Symptom Awareness: It’s essential to know what symptoms should be reported to your physician. The nurse navigators will provide you and your family with valuable information on what to watch for and when to seek medical attention, ensuring your safety and well-being throughout your treatment. And some of our nurse navigators are survivors, so they understand.
– Community and National Resources: Overall well-being is crucial to your health, from diagnosis through recovery. AtlantiCare nurse navigators will connect you with local community agencies and national resources that may be beneficial, including support groups where you can find comfort and understanding from others who have been on a similar path. Three AtlantiCare support groups are available in Cape May Court House and two in Egg Harbor Township. Contact Group Leader and Breast Navigator Evelyn “Eve” Spiegel, BSN, RN, OCN, at (609) 677-6010 for more information.
Choosing the
Right Support
While self-advocacy is key in the fight against any cancer, no one should feel alone in their journey. nurse navigators provide compassionate and essential support when self-advocacy isn’t possible, assuring every patient’s cancer journey is manageable. For more information or to speak with an AtlantiCare Cancer Care Institute nurse navigator, call (609) 677-5763.