O'Neal CCC Patient and Family Guide | Page 8

Supportive Care Clinic The Supportive Care Clinic is designed to meet your needs as you move through treatment and into survivorship. It helps you manage the symptoms and side effects often associated with serious illnesses, including cancer. Whether you are in the midst of treatment or have completed therapy, this clinic can support you with physician consultation, physical therapy, massage therapy, nutrition counseling, general counseling, and other related services. Next Steps Clinic – Breast Cancer The Next Steps Clinic for Breast Cancer offers specialized follow-up care focused on the unique needs of breast cancer patients. The goal of the clinic is to help each survivor stay as healthy as possible and to prevent problems from happening or catch them early, when they are most easily treated. RESOURCES & SUPPORT PROGRAMS Survivorship care is provided by a nurse practitioner with expertise in breast cancer care and survivorship matters. The long-term care this clinic provides gives patients an opportunity to discuss their cancer treatment, its impact on their health, and ways to stay as healthy as possible after breast cancer treatment. The clinic is carried out in collaboration with the patient’s primary treatment team. Fertility Preservation Our nationally recognized physicians have years of experience in supporting male and female fertility. Our team includes a urologist, a reproductive endocrinologist, specialized nurses, and laboratory scientists. Our fertility experts will determine a treatment plan that is best suited for each individual and his/her partner. Additional Clinical Support We offer physical and occupational therapy, speech pathology, pain management, and audiology rehabilitation to support your quality of life. Your cancer team will coordinate these services for you based on your treatment plan. Nurse Call Center Clinical staff are available to you on a direct phone line to address most symptom related questions and concerns while you are on the phone. EMOTIONAL SUPPORT Oncology Psychology and Counseling Cancer affects more than just the body. Our specially trained psychologists and counselors will work with you and your loved ones to manage emotional and relational distress through all phases of your cancer journey. We specialize in treating cancer-related anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, insomnia, fatigue, and pain, and we also can help improve family communication to enhance your quality of life and support system. Sessions for Individuals, couples, and families are available to meet the needs of each person. Support Groups We offer cancer support groups as a safe place to connect with others facing the same challenges in their cancer journey. These groups are great for sharing helpful resources, talking about your experience, better understanding your diagnosis, and receiving support. Studies show that these groups also can provide a strong sense of community and reduce stress. SPIRITUAL SUPPORT Pastoral Care Cancer can be a difficult and demanding experience for patients and families. Spiritual resources or faith can be a source of strength, support, and comfort. Chaplains are an integral part of the health care team available to patients and their families 24 hours a day, 7 days a week while receiving care at the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center. In addition, the Interfaith Chapel is always open for prayer, meditation, and reflection. uabmedicine.org 9