Support Services to Patients and Their Families

The University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center team is committed to providing patients with care that addresses both their physical needs and the emotional impact of cancer. Clinical social workers help patients and loved ones adjust to the difficult news. Our social workers specialize in oncology and are trained in the specific issues related to breast cancer. They provide counseling as well as information about resources throughout diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. The team also includes a psychologist who can help with adjustment issues.

Each patient and their family cope with the diagnosis in their own way. Some patients will seek as much information as possible while others will leave this task to a family member or friend. Some patients prefer not to know much at all. The UH Seidman Cancer Center and University Hospitals Breast Health Center teams understand and honor these differences.

Team members may suggest and can help patients find activities to cope, including:

  • Exercise
  • Talking with others
  • Joining a support group
  • Exploring nature
  • Journaling
  • Guided imagery
  • Relaxation techniques

Other patients have benefited from thinking back to a time when they successfully handled other challenges and identifying what approach helped them. The team suggests patients try a number of strategies, broaden their horizons and let others know what they can do to help.

Fear is common among cancer patients, and the breast team social workers can help patients determine what may be helpful to each individual situation. It may be helpful for patients to reflect on positive lifestyle decisions they have made to ensure well-being like maintaining proper body weight, getting enough exercise and limiting alcohol intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Each patient has specific issues and questions related to the breast cancer diagnosis. Our social service specialists have addressed some of the more common questions below.

Q. How will I pay for the cost of mammograms and treatment if a cancer is diagnosed?

A. Most health insurance plans cover the cost of mammograms and procedures that may follow. Patients without insurance may qualify for assistance through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Project. This program offers screening to qualified patients unable to pay for treatment themselves.

Q. How do I tell my children about the diagnosis of breast cancer?

A. Children need to be told the truth about a parent’s illness. The information should be simple, honest and age-appropriate. Parents should let their children know what to expect and when to expect it. They may need to repeat some information until the children fully understand the situation. It is vital that parents make it clear that no one is to blame for the cancer.