Free service now available at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale
Memorial Hospital of Carbondale and The American Cancer Society know that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. That’s why both entities have teamed up to ensure easy access to comprehensive cancer care through the Cancer Resource Center.
The Cancer Resource Center (CRC) is an extension of the American Cancer Society’s Patient Navigation Services (PNS). The main objective of the PNS program is to work with patients and family members to eliminate any barrier they may face related to the cancer experience. While the CRC is targeted at cancer patients, it’s also a resource for family, friends, caregivers and the general public. The goal is to provide the most up-to-date cancer information to those who have a concern about cancer.
“The American Cancer Society, Southern Region, is committed to meeting the needs of those who have a concern about cancer or who are facing cancer. People are always asking when Relay For Life season rolls around, ‘Where does the money go?’ This is a perfect example of your Relay For Life dollars at work in your local community,” said Penni Quitsch, a patient services representative with the American Cancer Society.
Jennifer Badiu, Southern Illinois Healthcare’s Administrative Director of Cancer Care Services, helped spearhead the partnership. “The Cancer Resource Center supports wellness and the healing process by providing patients and their loved ones with information, emotional support and community resources.”
Having a Cancer Resource Center provides a tremendous service to the surrounding community. All services and support are free of charge, and include:
- Disease and treatment information
- Resources / Guidance
- Transportation solutions
- How to talk to your doctor
- Make-up sessions with licensed cosmetologists
- Wigs/Turbans/Hats
- Coping and support group resources
- Information regarding clinical trials
- Assistance with questions about private Insurance/Medicare/Medicaid
The CRC is prominently located in the lobby of Memorial Hospital of Carbondale and is staffed by American Cancer Society staff and trained volunteers. Inside the center is a private area that accommodates cancer patients and families and provides a confidential setting to discuss specific needs. It is equipped with an internet-accessible computer, a phone, and a printer and staff can conduct specific, professional searches upon request.
The outside features a walk-up kiosk with Xplain software, which includes a touch screen with a vast amount of tutorials. The tutorials range from cancer diagnosis and cardiac procedures to diagnostic imaging.
One exciting feature of the CRC is “Tuesday Boutique.” Beginning in December, each Tuesday from 9:00am until 1:00pm, the CRC will have a selection of wigs, hats, and scarves available free of charge for patients who are experiencing hair loss as a result of treatment. The wigs are high quality, and all of the items are new.
“Wigs are a huge commodity for the Southern Region of the American Cancer Society. We get calls all the time at the Marion office from people in Jackson, Union, Perry, and Randolph counties who need wigs but can’t get to Marion for various reasons. They will describe what they are looking for, and request that we send them a wig through the mail. We can go that route, but it’s difficult to get the selection right under those circumstances,” added Quitsch.
During our infancy, this valuable resource will operate with varying hours each week. However, appointments are available to help meet individual requests and can be obtained by calling 549-0721 ext. 65172.