Fletcher Allen, a Vermont university hospital and medical center, serves all of
Vermont and the northern New York region. Located in Burlington, Fletcher Allen is a regional, academic healthcare center and teaching hospital in alliance with the University of Vermont.
Cancer Patient Support
Cancer Support at Fletcher Allen Health Care
Fletcher Allen in Burlington, VT, provides family support services to cancer patients and family members through a variety Programs.
The Cancer Patient Support Program
There are two licensed psychologists, a dietitian, and a social worker who are members of the Cancer Patient Support Program at Fletcher Allen and offer educational and emotional support to patients and families individually and/or in groups. The CPSP web site has more information about the services they provide.
As part of the Vermont Cancer Center, we offer you the opportunity to participate in the latest lung cancer treatment clinical trials.
In addition, we offer our patients a variety of specialized support programs.
- Social services consultation
- Financial services consultation
- Psychology and psychiatry support
Pyschological Support at Fletcher Allen
A diagnosis of breast cancer can be one of the most difficult challenges a woman, or man, will face. Fear, anxiety, and depression are just a few of the emotions that may be experienced. The Cancer Patient Support Program (CPSP) is a comprehensive support service designed for cancer patients and their families.
The CPSP provides support at the Breast Care Center beginning in the Multidisciplinary Clinic where patients meet with the surgeon and radiation and medical oncologists to develop a treatment plan. A clinical psychologist meets with patients during the Multidisciplinary Clinic, providing a folder with information about CPSP services.
The psychologist assesses distress and recommends what interventions are needed to enable patients to participate fully in the treatment process. Support services are also available to patients diagnosed with recurrence or those who have developed metastatic disease.
This face-to-face contact along with other services including individual and family counseling, nutritional counseling, support groups, and educational programs all contribute to helping patients realize they are not alone and help is available.
Lymphedema Clinic
Lymphedema is a collection of lymphatic fluid that can collect in the arm, chest wall or breast after treatment for breast cancer. This may present as a mild swelling in one area of the body. Your oncology physicians and care providers will work with you to decide if this swelling is lymphedema and if you should be seen at the lymphedema clinic.
Lymphedema can be treated, and there are many options as how to manage this. Patients seen at the Lymphedema Clinic are evaluated by a physician and a physical therapist both trained specifically in the various methods to treat lymphedema.
Dr. Patti O'Brien, a breast cancer survivor, educates, evaluates and directs management of these patients. The PTs that rotate through the clinic are all certified in lymphedema care through the Lymphedema Association of North America.
