Social Services for Cancer

When going through cancer treatment, you are understandably focused on physical symptoms and healing. But major illness can also present a host of nonmedical issues. At Memorial Cancer Institute, you and your family do not need to face those alone.

Our experienced oncology social workers are here to help you handle whatever cancer throws your way.

Cancer Assistance for Everyday Life

We understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate a cancer diagnosis and treatment. In addition to the physical effects, you also have emotional and practical matters to manage. Our compassionate social workers are experts at helping you cope with all these unique needs.

Our cancer social workers take the time to get to know you and your family and listen to your concerns. Their goal is to connect you with services that will ease your burden and remove barriers to getting the care you need.

Social services are available at no cost to all our patients and their families. We’ll coordinate with your other team members to ensure all your needs are met.

Our cancer social workers are here to provide advice, guidance and support for non medical issues, such as:

• Accessing transportation programs if you need help getting to and from appointments
• Connecting you and your family members with the right support groups
• Discussing fertility preservation and family planning
• Discussing the emotional impact and quality of life concerns you may have after being diagnosed with cancer
• Finding programs that could help offset the cost of medication
• Identifying and helping you apply for eligible benefits
• Managing financial concerns and identifying financial resources
• Navigating insurance issues
• Talking to your family, friends and caregivers about your cancer diagnosis
  Talking with your employer or school about your diagnosis and how you can participate during and after treatment

Additional Cancer Resources

Memorial offers a variety of resources to support our patients and their families. We also recommend seeking out other cancer resources for additional information and assistance.

For All Types of Cancer

• American Cancer Society: This nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. Patients and families can find cancer information and resources here.
• American Cancer Society Road to Recovery: This program provides transportation to and from cancer treatment for people who do not have a ride or cannot drive themselves.
• Appointment reminders: Receive appointment reminders from Memorial Cancer Institute on your cell phone by signing up for text messages. Text "Memorial" to 62262 to start receiving reminders.
• Cancer Care: This nationwide organization provides free, professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer.
• Financial services from Memorial Healthcare System can help you with:
  • Financial assistance
  • Hospital bill questions or copies of your bill
  • Insurance and charges
  • Payment arrangements
  • Status of your account
• Gilda's Club South Florida: They offer support groups, healthy living workshops, educational programs and social activities, all free of charge.
• National Comprehensive Cancer Network: This nonprofit alliance of cancer centers is devoted to patient care, research, and education. Patients and families can find cancer information and resources on this site.
• Southeast Florida Cancer Control Collaborative: An organization of healthcare providers, community organizations, advocacy groups and others interested in networking and education related to cancer control.

For Blood Cancers

• Be the Match®: Helps patients with blood cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma, get life-saving stem cell transplants.
  
• Leukemia & Lymphoma Society®: Information and resources to improve the quality of life of patients and families affected by leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma.

For Breast Cancer

• Living Beyond Breast Cancer: Trusted information and a community of support to those impacted by breast cancer.
  
• Susan G. Komen®: Dedicated to saving lives by meeting the most critical needs in our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.

For Gynecologic Cancer

• HysterSisters®: Provides woman-to-woman hysterectomy support from diagnosis through recovery and beyond.

For Lung Cancer

• GO2 Foundation for Lung Care: Dedicated to saving, extending and improving the lives of those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer.

For Prostate Cancer

• ZERO Prostate Cancer: Leading national nonprofit with the mission to end prostate cancer by advancing research, improving the lives of men and families, and inspiring action through education, testing and advocacy.

For Stomach Cancer

• Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Dedicated to raising awareness about stomach cancer, advancing funding for research and providing education and support to patients, families and caregivers.