By: Mary Welch, RN, MS, FNP-C, AOCN, oncology nurse practitioner/nurse navigator, MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute, Long Beach Memorial

Cancer treatment is unique to each person. Treatment may vary and may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy and other necessary options to fight the disease effectively. When people think of “cancer care,” a common image or assumption is treatment for the body, but there are additional ways to ensure patients fight back against cancer.

At the MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute, patients receive complete cancer care by taking part in activities that are uplifting and encourage positive thinking. These activities can be deemed integrated medicine.

Making sure that the body heals in its entirety (body and mind) is integrated medicine. Integrated medicine is different from standard care because it promotes physical and emotional health for the best quality of life. Cancer patients should feel assured that the care they receive is focused on healing, building strength, endurance and peace of mind while battling their illness.

Integrated cancer care consists of targeting treatment and healing for both the mind and body. When cancer patients have the education to know exactly what they are diagnosed with, the treatment, as well as the side effects, it can lessen stress and promote healthiness. Also, when patients are given access to resources that support their mental, emotional, spiritual and physical health, their entire healing process improves.

There are several ways to take part in integrated cancer medicine at the MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute at Long Beach Memorial:

  • MemorialCare Todd Cancer Institute’s Ambulatory Infusion Center is designed with a soothing and relaxing atmosphere for patients to feel comfortable within the hospital (i.e., patients can listen to music or receive massages while having treatment)
  • Consultation rooms are outside of the exam rooms for patients to meet with doctors privately or with family/loved ones
  • Patients can visit and speak with not only their primary care physicians, but with hospital pre-op surgeons, clinicians, nurses, fellows, residents and medical students under one roof for treatment and therapy
  • Cancer patients and survivors are encouraged to get involved in support groups and mentorships that foster strong relationships with hospital care teams and other patients (i.e., Women Guiding Women: Cancer Support & Education)
  • Free yoga classes are open to cancer patients in the community  
  • Psychosocial support from the Beat the Odds and Boost the Odds Programs teaches patients how to handle stress appropriately and improve sleeping habits
  • A mind-body oncology coach provides guidance and tools to build patient confidence throughout their cancer journey  
  • Licensed clinical social workers are available to assist with practical issues, such as time off from work or additional individual psychosocial support

  • An informational resource center is available to help patients and families learn about their disease

Each patient is different and integrated medicine ensures that every individual’s needs are met with keen attention to who they are and how they feel. Cancer treatment can be optimized when patients are offered comprehensive care that focuses on the body, mind and spirit and promotes wellness.

Call 800-MEMORIAL for more information.