Cancer survivorship visits

After diagnosis and treatment, survivors are excited about the idea of returning to a normal life, but it is important to remember that it can take time to recover. Some survivors experience long-term side effects related to their cancer treatment. After you finish your cancer treatment, you may wonder what comes next. A cancer survivorship visit is a one-time visit that takes place after you’ve completed your treatment. Our goal is to help you to return to everyday life by developing an individualized care plan for life moving forward.

What happens at a cancer survivorship visit?

At a cancer survivorship visit you’ll meet with one of our cancer specialists, (RN, Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant) to review important information and provide you with tools to help you learn how to live well beyond cancer. You’ll receive an individualized survivorship care plan that includes guidelines for monitoring and maintaining your health. You'll continue your regular follow-up visits with your cancer provider for ongoing monitoring and care. Learn more about cancer survivorship care plans.

Why is it important?

Survivorship care can help you learn to live the healthiest life you possibly can by addressing any physical, emotional or social care needs. It can also improve care coordination between your cancer team and your primary care provider. We give you information to help minimize effects from your cancer and treatment while helping you decrease the risk of cancer coming back.

What can I expect during my visit?

During your survivorship visit you will:

• Review your cancer history, including the type of cancer you had and the treatment you completed.
• Discuss the potential late or long-term effects of your treatment and how you can manage those issues. Sometimes these side effects can continue after treatment or may develop even months or years later.
• Receive information on healthy diet and activity recommendations.
• Help identify any other related issues, such as relationship issues, sexual problems, financial concerns and other day-to-day issues related to your cancer and its treatment.

We can make referrals to our wide support network to help you with any of those needs including:

• Cancer rehabilitation (with a specialized physical therapist)
• Social worker support services
• Financial or legal assistance counselor
• Mental health counselor
• Cardio-oncology consult if you had any treatment that can affect your heart
• Genetic counseling and testing
• Physical therapy and occupational therapy for rehabilitation or neuropathy
• Lymphedema specialist
• Sexual health specialist
• Home health care

How can I schedule my cancer survivorship visit?

Please contact your cancer provider’s office (medical, surgical or radiation oncology) to schedule. You can also contact your Cancer Nurse Navigator, if you have been working with one, to assist you. Find your clinic.

More information about survivors

Check out our cancer survivorship booklet [PDF].

Read about Team Phoenix, our innovative 14-week fitness and research program.

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