Providing expert cancer care requires a wide range of services, all of which are available right at The Regional Cancer Center for the convenience of patients and their families. These services are provided by professionals who are highly trained in their respective fields, as well as experienced in the unique needs and concerns of cancer patients. Support services include: • A diagnostic radiology unit, integrated PET/CT imaging and a mammography unit accredited by the American College of Radiology. All X-rays are interpreted on-site the same day by board-certified radiologists. The radiologists all have subspecialty training in mammography, and the Center's radiologic technologists all have advanced certification in mammography and CT scanning. • A state-approved level 3 laboratory to monitor patients' blood work and effect of medications. Testing is performed on-site for fast turnaround and effective monitoring of treatment. • An on-site pharmacy to prepare chemotherapy drugs and stock additional medications for patients, commonly used over-the-counter medications and nutritional supplements. Pharmacists are available to discuss with the patient and family any aspect of drug therapy, including how a medication works, possible side effects and drug interactions. • The expertise of a registered dietitian available on-site to assist with patients' dietary needs during and after cancer treatments. For cancer patients, maintaining good nutrition is critical to obtaining the full benefit of therapy. • For non-medical problems or concerns that arise as the result of a cancer diagnosis or treatment, the expertise of The Center's social workers are available to patientsand families. The social workerscan assist with transportation issues and financial nees, refer individuals to community agencies or home health organizations, suggest support groups and educational resources, and even arrange temporary housing. • A financial counselor to verify insurance coverage, discuss how insurances will apply to services incurred, arrange special payment plans if needed and resolve any other questions or concerns related to finances. • A chaplain to provide counseling and support to patients and families as they manage the emotional, psychological and spiritual issues often associated with a cancer diagnosis. • To facilitate understanding and coping with the strong emotions that accompany a breast cancer diagnosis the Breast Nurse Navigator facilitates patient care from point of diagnosis through treatment to provide guidance with decision making, education and support. She remains a constant caregiver and overseer of the patient's educational, emotional and social need. • The Supportive/Palliative Care Team becomes more directly involved with patiens with life-threatening illnesses or advanced chronic conditions, and focues a variety of valuable services intensely on patient symptom management. The team is coordinated by Sherri Siegel. Working to achieve patient-focused care the team coordinates services within the Center as well as among other healthcare providers. • Information and referral resources designed to link patients and families with community agencies, support groups and other health care services such as those providing rehabilitation, home health care and hospice care. • A patient resource center, featuring the most comprehensive collection of educational materials on cancer topics in the region. These resources, including a CancerHelp™ computer, books and other printed materials as well as videos and audio cassettes, are all available for use at no cost to patients, their families and the general public. To contact any one of the Center's Support Services Department staff members ask any Regional Cancer Center staff member for assistance or call the direct dial telephone numbers listed below: Social Worker 836-2618 Dietitian 838-0429 Financial Services 838-0406