Support
We offer a variety of programs through the American Cancer Society. These are designed to provide you with support, information and help you access needed services. Psychosocial and spiritual aspects of cancer care are provided by compassionate social workers and pastoral care staff that are available to assist in the maze of cancer care. Additionally, a breast cancer support group is held monthly for women from diagnosis through all stages of survivorship.
Other services provided throughout the SOMC system include:
American Cancer Society
We partner with the American Cancer Society for a number of programs. As a resource, we also offer the ACS Cancer Resource Center in the SOMC Cancer Center, off the main lobby. Some of the programs offered in conjunction with the American Cancer Society include:
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I Can Cope
This educational program is sponsored by the American Cancer Society to provide a supportive environment for adults with cancer and their loved ones. It is designed to help increase your knowledge of cancer and provide support. -
Look Good...Feel Better
The Look Good...Feel Better program is a community-based, free, national service of the American Cancer Society. It teaches female cancer patients beauty techniques to help restore their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. -
Breast Cancer Support Group
Sometimes, the only person who can possibly understand what you are going through is someone who has been there herself. The Breast Cancer Support Group is offered by the SOMC Cancer Center to provide ongoing support and fellowship to women diagnosed with breast cancer. -
Freshstart
Freshstart is a program of Southern Ohio Medical Center and the American Cancer Society. Each class consists of four one-hour sessions. All classes and materials are free but require advance registration. For more information or to register, call (740) 356-7692. See the Calendar of Health Events for the dates of currently scheduled classes.
ACS Cancer Resource Center
Patients, visitors, families and community members are invited to visit our ACS Cancer Resource Center to obtain the latest information on cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. The office provides information through books, brochures, education, and Internet access. You can receive information on programs and services provided by the American Cancer Society.
- How to obtain a wig or prosthesis
- How to contact community support groups in your area
- Nutritional supplements
- Relay for Life activities
Cancer Well-Fit Program
Offered through the SOMC LIFE Center and SOMC Rehabilitation Services, the Cancer Well-Fit Program takes healing beyond conventional medical treatments. The program includes three components tailored to meet each patient’s needs. The first component is medical management, the second is rehab techniques and the third is a support group called “Body and Soul.”
Home Care
Medical care is provided to thousands in the comfort and privacy of their own homes through SOMC Home Health Services.
Monitored Care Unit
This unit at SOMC cares for oncology patients by administering all inpatient chemotherapy treatments. The staff has expanded knowledge and competency testing in the care of oncology patients and is directed by an oncology certified nurse.
Nutrition Services
Proper diet can help boost your energy, offset possible side-effects of treatment, and help your overall well-being. Registered dietitians are available through the SOMC Cancer Center to counsel you on your nutritional needs.
Pastoral Care
The SOMC Pastoral Care staff is available to oncology patients and families. Staff members show love and care, they can help with difficult questions and decisions and provide spiritual support.
Social Work Services
The Social Work Department at the Cancer Center provides the following various services to our patients:
- Assist with financial/insurance questions and concerns
- Transportation assistance
- Medication assistance
- Homecare and hospice assistance
- DME (durable medical equipment)
- Assisting patients in establishing primary care physicians
- Nursing home placement/Short term rehabilitation
- Distress management/psychosocial evaluations
SOMC Hospice
Hospice care is delivered by a team of nurses, home health aides, social workers, volunteers, therapists, chaplains, dietitians, pharmacists and physicians. The mission of hospice is to provide supportive care for persons with a life limiting illness. When the hope of a medical cure is no longer possible, hospice offers hope that persons can maximize their remaining days.