Nurse Navigation

At the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, one of the exceptional services available to patients and their families is Nurse Navigation. A nurse navigator acts as a dedicated advocate, guiding patients and their loved ones through every stage of the cancer journey. From the moment of diagnosis, the nurse navigator ensures that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. They offer ongoing education, emotional support, and guidance, standing by patients throughout the entire continuum of care—from diagnosis to the completion of treatment and beyond.

Culinary Medicine and Teaching Kitchen

We are excited to introduce new classes in the CEFCU Teaching Kitchen at the OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, offering cancer patients, survivors, and their families hands-on experiences with our dietitians to learn essential healthy cooking skills. Recent classes have included plant-based cooking demonstrations, sessions focused on budget-friendly eating, and specialized programs for Hispanic groups. Additionally, culinary events have been offered for heart transplant patients and soon there will be a class on food preservation and culinary herbs. These programs are designed to support health, recovery, and overall well-being.

Supportive Services

Supportive services are a cornerstone of the START program at OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center, offering comprehensive, personalized care to help cancer survivors thrive post-treatment. Recognizing the diverse needs of patients, the program provides a wide range of services, including nutritional counseling, exercise planning, oncology massage, and access to specialists in areas such as palliative care, rehabilitation, and mental health. These services are tailored to address the physical and emotional challenges that survivors face, ensuring they receive the holistic support necessary to navigate their "new normal" with confidence and resilience.

Survivorship

Survivorship is at the heart of the START (Survive, Thrive And Recover Together) program at OSF HealthCare Saint Francis Medical Center. Designed to empower patients after cancer treatment, the program emphasizes education, symptom management, and the adoption of healthy lifestyles as essential components for life beyond cancer. The START program supports survivors by helping them navigate the physical and emotional changes that accompany the end of treatment, ensuring they are equipped to thrive in their "new normal." With a commitment to providing continuous care, the program reflects the belief that the end of treatment is just the beginning of a new chapter, guiding patients with strength and resilience as they move forward in their survivorship journey.