Cottage Grove sentinel., July 20, 2016, Page 18, Image 64

What is the 1.800.ACS.2345 number all about?
The purpose of this toll free 24/7/365 hotline is to increase cancer knowledge and empower patients and
caregivers to participate in their decision making, communicate with their treatment team, and cope with issues
that arise through their cancer journey. It’s not just providing information; our Cancer Information Specialists help
patients to know how to act on the information provided. The Cancer Information Specialists can match callers to
important resources and referrals to ACS Patient Programs based on a caller’s geographic region.
Why would I call this number?
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Get connected to a clinical trial: There are 152 clinical trials in Oregon alone, and many more
across the country that might be a match for your diagnosis. Our Clinical Trials Specialists
ultimately work with your physician on making sure the match is appropriate for you.
Get answers/clarification on your medical status: Our Oncology Nurses are here to answer
complex medical questions about diagnosis, treatment, side effects, medicines, etc. They do
NOT replace your doctor, nor do they give medical advice, they give facts to guide the patient in
making decisions. Questions to ask your doctor can be provided by CIS and/or nurses.
Questions around cancer diagnosis and treatment options
Prevention and Detection. Understanding screening recommendations, referrals to appropriate
clinics, procedural clarifications, etc.
Stress issues- fear of death, communication with loved ones especially children of cancer
patients, lack of decision making knowledge, long and short term side effects, inability to work,
lack of insurance, financial devastation*
Nutrition and Physical activity for the cancer patient
Knowledge and management of side effects, pain and medications
The Health Insurance Assistance Team can educate callers on getting and staying insured
The lifetime journey including survivorship
Transportation and lodging during treatment
End of Life, what to expect, timelines, communication to others
Solitary patients who need day to day support
Suicide and abuse, chronic callers with serious psycho-social issues
Match caller to local and national resources, patient programs and referrals to ACS Patient
Programs (Road to Recovery, Reach to Recovery, Look Good Feel Better, Hope Lodge, etc)
A friendly, supportive person to talk to. When your medical professional isn’t available, we are.
18 • 2016 Relay for Life of South Lane County