Supportive Oncology

When you become a patient at Northwestern Medicine, you receive care for the whole person. We offer both physical and emotional care. Our support services can help you and your family throughout your cancer journey.

Your support team will include:

• Board-certified oncology social worker or clinical counselor
• Nutritionist
• Financial counselor
• Nurse navigators
• Rehabilitation specialists
• Support services experts

Support Services

You may feel overwhelmed if you’re diagnosed with cancer. You and your loved ones may need help coping. We offer services that provide emotional and practical support during all stages of cancer, from diagnosis and treatment to recovery.

CoC-Accredited Programs

The American College of Surgeons CoC recognizes the below Northwestern Medicine locations as accredited cancer programs. These programs provide high-quality, patient-centered care.

• Northwestern Memorial Hospital
• Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital
• Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital
• Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital
• Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital
• Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital Cancer Center
• Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital

Nurse Navigators To Guide You

We will connect you with a nurse navigator before you start your treatment. Your nurse navigator will:

• Guide you and your family through treatment.
• Help you learn about your diagnosis and care plan.
• Work closely with your physicians to help coordinate your care.
• Connect you to support services.

Their goal is to help reduce any anxiety you have and support your overall well-being.

Nutrition Services

If you have cancer, you may have special nutrition concerns. Our registered dietitians specialize in oncology nutrition. They can give you up-to-date, research-based nutrition advice and education during treatment and recovery on topics like:

• Managing your appetite
• Improving your immune system
• Getting the right nutrition

Rehabilitation Services

Our rehabilitation staff can help if you:

• Feel weaker
• Have a hard time with everyday activities
• Live with special physical needs after surgery and treatment

Physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists can work with you on strength and conditioning, self-care, swallowing and communication.

They can also perform manual lymph drainage, compression and exercises to help you manage the symptoms of fat buildup and to avoid inflammation and infections.

Classes and Support Groups

We offer classes and support groups to help you and your loved ones during cancer treatment. View available classes, events and support groups.

Wig Boutiques

If you have hair loss from cancer treatment, Northwestern Medicine Living Well Cancer Resources offers virtual wig consultations. Our wig specialists will help you choose a wig that fits your needs from the comfort of your home. These wigs are available at no cost to you.

Learn more at cancer support services.