Developing a comprehensive cancer center rehabilitation program

As more oncology care is provided in the outpatient setting, cancer centers and oncology healthcare professionals are presented with greater opportunities to substantially enhance the quality of care given to patients. A diagnosis of cancer is a life-changing event that has many implications for the patient, as well as his or her family members. The stress of dealing with a new cancer diagnosis and the ensuing medical treatment can be overwhelming. Treatment for cancer may involve complex protocols, leaving patents mentally and physically exhausted. A multidisciplinary approach to the primary treatment plan-surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy--is the standard of care. However, formalized rehabilitation programs for this patient population are unique. Many facilities rely on a centralized rehabilitation department within a medical center to meet the needs of oncology patients. Although this is the traditional approach, the growing complexity of cancer treatment provides an opportunity to enhance the rehabilitation process. The Gibbs Regional Cancer Center (GRCC), which is a part of Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, teamed up with the hospital rehabilitation department to create a venue specifically designed for oncology patients. Described within this article is the developmental process of the GRCC Rehabilitation Program.