Health care professionals usually offer some type of educational services to the patient and family. And a follow-up visit to their regular doctor may not be scheduled for several weeks. Some researchers are helping cancer patients and families cope by making regular telephone calls after discharge from the hospital. In one program, trained nurses call patients at home once a week for eight weeks. The phone call allows patients and caregivers to ask questions, vent frustrations, or find ways to solve unexpected problems.
Patients also like the personal touch the phone call brings.
They can anticipate getting the weekly call and keep a list of questions and concerns to discuss during the next call. The information on this factsheet is not meant to substitute for a consultation with your physician or with another healthcare professional. Speak with your doctor if you have questions about Cancer Calls, or any medical problem.