Center To Eliminate Cancer Disparities
Patient Advocacy, Community Outreach,
and Support Programs
In addition to the support programs available through the hospital, this Center will also provide
patients with contact information for cancer advocacy and support groups both locally and nationally
that serve the needs of their demographic background. We are also proud to host and sponsor several
annual events where patients can come together to share their stories and plan for a future free of
cancer disparities
Award Winning Buddy Program
The buddies in our program are trained volunteers who have been through cancer treatment themselves
and now provide short-term one-on-one support and information over the telephone to others facing
cancer. The patient is set up with a buddy who is similar to them in terms of cancer diagnosis,
treatment, and other criteria such as age and gender.
Caregiver Connection
This group offers support and education to caregivers of patients going through cancer treatment.
While your loved one is in treatment, caregivers can come to share and/or listen to each other talk
about their experience as caregivers. It will be facilitated by licensed Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center social
workers. Participation is voluntary and anything shared will be strictly confidential.
Healthy Woman Program
The Healthy Woman Program (HWP) is a free breast and cervical cancer early detection program of the
Pennsylvania Department of Health. It is funded by the Department of Health and through a grant the
Department receives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at
Jefferson is proud to be a Healthy Woman provider. Free services for those meeting the eligibility
standards include: clinical breast examination; mammogram; pelvic examination and pap smear; education
on breast self-exam; and follow-up diagnostic care for an abnormal result.
Individual and Family Counseling
Oncology social workers are available to meet privately with cancer patients and their families to
help with the psychosocial impact of a cancer diagnosis. Oncology social workers specialize in
individual, couple and family counseling to cope with illness adjustment issues, stress management,
and/or possible end-of-life issues. Counselors are also available to provide information on financial
resources.
For a complete list of Jefferson cancer support programs, visit:
http://www.jeffersonhospital.org/departments-and-services/kimmel-cancer-center/Patient%20and%20Family%20Support.aspx
