Supportive Oncology
A cancer diagnosis comes with unique physical, emotional, and life challenges. We understand, and at Dana-Farber we care for the whole patient. Our supportive oncology specialists work closely with each treatment team to provide personalized care plans that focus on enhancing our patients' quality of life. We're here to support our patients, their family members, and caregivers.
Understanding Supportive Oncology
Experiencing cancer can be overwhelming. In our Supportive Oncology teams, we have a variety of specialists who can help patients and families manage this stress and live their best quality of life. We’re here to offer guidance and explain how each supportive service is beneficial through every step of cancer care.
How can "psychosocial care" help with cancer?
Psychosocial care focuses on the psychological, emotional, behavioral, social, and spiritual effects of cancer and its treatment. Psychosocial services include:
- Individual and group therapy
- Stress management and coping strategies
- Substance use management
- Spiritual support
- Family counseling
- Bereavement support
How can "palliative care" help through each stage of cancer?
Palliative care can be helpful throughout all stages of care. It can help make treatments more tolerable. It can also reduce the burden of cancer, help patients carry on with daily life, and assist in planning for the future. Palliative services include:
- Pain management
- Treatment of common symptoms including fatigue, nausea, and sleep disturbance
- End-of-life care
- Bereavement support
More Support Services and Resources
Resources and Support Services for Patients and Families
Explore all resources and support programs available to patients, family, and caregivers to help throughout every stage of treatment.
Financial Need-Based Resources for Adult Patients
Specialists are available to help eligible adult patients with financial, logistical, and practical needs, including assistance with medical bills, navigating to and from appointments, and more.
Financial Need-Based Resources for Pediatric Patients
Specialists can help eligible families with financial, logistical, and practical needs, including assistance with medical bills, navigating to and from appointments, and more.