Cancer Experience Guides Personalize Cancer Care

“We call it ‘the roar in the head,” remarks Anita Flohe, RN. “We see it so often when we’re with people who have just learned that cancer is now part of their life. It’s an overwhelming moment, filled with fear . . . confusion . . . anger. Our mission is to help them get through that moment – and to be with them throughout the entire journey that lies ahead.”

Flohe and her colleague, Roger Hershberger, MSW, lead the Cancer Experience Guide program at EGH, an innovative approach to helping patients and families cope with the disease. The goal is to enhance the medical treatment plan by providing highly individualized support based on each patient’s unique emotional, spiritual, and personal needs – literally guiding the patient and family through the entire journey. The program was initiated last year, in concert with the opening of Elkhart General’s new Oncology Care Unit.

“To do what we do, it’s crucial that we get to know each patient as a person,” explains Hershberger. “It starts with ‘My Story Profile’ – a brief written outline that helps us learn about the individual and the family. What are some special things we can do to help make their time with us more comfortable? What is their greatest fear? How might we best help the family? We even ask about favorite foods, colors, hobbies . . . seemingly little things that can be really important in helping us plot a course that will be uniquely suited to them.”

A particularly valuable feature of the program: Cancer Experience Guides are able to continue working with patients regardless of the care setting. The relationship may start in the patient’s doctor’s office, but the cancer care journey will often include a number of stops along the way – inpatient care, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, rehab, or home care. “It’s important that we support the patient and the family throughout the entire journey,” remarks Flohe. “That means being able to be with them – regardless of where they happen to be receiving care or treatment.”

To learn more about the Cancer Experience Guides program, call 574-524-7486 or 574-524-7487.