You are one of 12 million cancer survivors currently living in the United States. As a cancer survivor, your courage and determination have gotten you through difficult times. Now, as you finish treatment, we will help ease your transition from cancer patient to cancer survivor, focusing on living again through new information, support, resources, and referrals. Let Moncrief create a follow-up plan to revitalize your health and well-being.

What to Expect

As part of the free Survivorship Program at Moncrief Cancer Institute, you will:

• Receive one-on-one sessions with our Specialized Fitness Trainer.
• Have a personal consultation with a registered dietitian who will identify your nutrition needs and provide dietary tips to restore your energy.
• Meet with an Oncology-Certified Nurse who can provide a written summary of your cancer treatment and help monitor possible long-term effects as a result of chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
   

The Survivorship Program at Moncrief Cancer Institute can answer your questions:

What should I do to maintain my health and well-being?
Research shows a healthy lifestyle can positively impact survival and reduce the risk of secondary cancers. Oncology-Certified Dietitians, Specialized Fitness Trainers, Psychologists, Licensed Oncology Social Workers, and Oncology-Certified Nurses at Moncrief Cancer Institute offer nutrition classes, exercise programs, smoking cessation classes, and inspiration for healthy lifestyle changes for the survivor and caregivers.

Do I need to seek follow-up care?
We will help identify a coordinator for your continuing care, such as your oncologist or primary care physician. Moncrief’s Survivorship Program will provide you with a personalized surveillance plan specific to your cancer. We will inform you of national guidelines for future lab work, exams, and x-rays.

Will I get cancer again?
Fear of recurrence is always a concern for a cancer survivor. Moncrief's Clinical Psychologist will counsel survivors and family members coping with the emotional stress of cancer.

Is my family at increased risk for cancer?
Our board-certified Genetic Counselors provide genetic counseling and testing. Their assessments determine high-risk family members and help you understand their risk of developing cancer, as well as options for prevention, early detection, and treatment. Most insurance is accepted. Financial assistance is available for people without insurance.

What if l have difficulty getting health insurance?
Licensed Oncology Social Workers at Moncrief Cancer Institute can provide information about your rights as a cancer survivor through information provided by the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship^®. A 2006 study found that most employers appear to be highly sensitive and accommodating to the needs of employees who have cancer or who are caregivers for cancer survivors.

What if I have trouble paying medical bills related to my treatment?
Even with insurance, many people are unprepared for the out-of-pocket expenses for their medical care. At Moncrief Cancer Institute, a Medical Bill Advocate provides free guidance to help patients understand explanation-of-benefit (EOB) statements and resolve medical bills.

Are there support groups l can turn to?
Yes, you are not alone. Our Clinical Psychologists and Licensed Oncology Social Workers lead educational support groups at Moncrief Cancer Institute. Support groups are available for patients and family members affected by a brain tumor, head and neck cancer, breast cancer, or lumpectomy. Our other support groups focus on the needs of spouses and partners.

*Moncrief’s Survivorship Program is made possible in part through a grant from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT).