columbushosp.org 9 “We gather your background medical history and screen for any impairments you might be having related to cancer and its treatments,” Ruskamp said. Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms yet, you could benefit from education on what to expect and possibly some therapy exercises to help prepare you better for the next steps. “Or maybe you’ve finished your treatments a year ago and you’re coming to us worn out and unable to get back to things you want to do,” Ruskamp said. The team can guide you toward the most helpful services, whether that’s physical, occupational or speech therapy or a consultation with a dietitian. Expert therapy team The cancer rehab care team encompasses specially trained medical professionals, such as physicians, oncology nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, registered dietitians and social workers. These team members work together to guide and support you. Your therapy plan will depend on your individual goals. It may include: ● Increasing your strength and energy for work or school and activities of daily living. ● Resolving or relieving your pain. ● Improving your functioning and quality of life. Connect to care Although you need a physician referral for therapy services, you don’t need one to schedule an initial consultation. Insurance providers cover most services. To learn more about Thrive Cancer Rehabilitation Care, please call 402-562-3333. For instance, you could meet with a physical or occupational therapist who has additional training and continuing education in cancer rehabilitation. Your therapist would develop a personalized treatment plan for you. That plan could include a home exercise program; adaptation of your activities at home; community exercise, such as Livestrong® (an exercise group at the YMCA for cancer survivors); and formal therapy sessions to get you started. Or you might see a speech therapist for help with speaking, swallowing difficulties, memory issues or thinking problems. It all depends on your needs. To further support you, the team will also check in about any emotional distress related to your cancer. “That’s part of our whole-person approach,” Ruskamp said. “We don’t just focus on impairments from cancer. We also look at what else is happening in your life. If we can decrease that level of distress, that’s a big win for people.” Livestrong® is a registered trademark of the Livestrong Foundation. Is it right for you? Janssen and Ruskamp realize cancer rehab can seem like one more thing on your to-do list right now. But they want you to know their team is here for you. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, they will listen and help you. “Rehabilitation isn’t an afterthought,” Ruskamp said. “It really should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.” Thrive Cancer Rehabilitation Care program coordinator Michell Ruskamp, MS, CCC-SLP, speaks with a patient.
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