Being a member of Cancer Guardian means that you are always supported by real people, in real time.
- Cancer Information Line: staffed by oncology experts who can provide guidance over the phone for any cancer related questions, concerns, risk-mitigation strategies, or caregiving guidance.
- Dedicated Cancer Support Specialist – if diagnosed with cancer, you are assigned an oncology professional who will create a personalized program to optimize health outcomes along each step in the cancer treatment journey
- Expert Pathology Review – provides independent pathology review to ensure that you have a correct diagnosis.
- On-Site Nurse Advocate (one visit) – attends a physician/hospital appointment with you to provide support during the consultation, improve your understanding as a patient of cancer diagnosis and treatment options, and advocates on your behalf.
The Cancer Information Line is a “Day 1” benefit and is available to members when they join. Cancer diagnosis is NOT required in order to take advantage of this service. Staffed by oncology experts, the Cancer Information Line is there to help answer your questions on cancer related topics.
If you are diagnosed with cancer while enrolled in the program, a dedicated Cancer Support Specialist (CSS) will be assigned to you. They will conduct a Health Management Assessment (HMA) and work with you to create a personalized program to optimize health outcomes along each step of cancer care. The CSS will provide information to improve gaps in health literacy and facilitate access to a range of services and support programs.
Proactively obtaining an expert pathology review is important to help ensure your diagnosis is correct. Because a wrong diagnosis could lead to an ineffective treatment plan, Cancer Guardian provides access to a second opinion review, which can be obtained quickly and efficiently from leading cancer centers. The entire process is fully funded and managed by your Cancer Support Specialist, with results sent back to your oncologist.
Yes, your dedicated Cancer Support Specialist works closely with your hospital oncology team throughout each step of cancer treatment. Additionally, your CSS will help in preparing for medical consultations, translate complex medical terminology, source local resources, and provide emotional support and advocacy. They are there to help ensure you understand treatment options and that you have an active role in clinical decisions.
Yes, your dedicated Cancer Support Specialist remains a resource to you after treatment. They will continue to provide ongoing support through dedicated coaching and providing curated information.