The program is expected to be in effect soon in most parts of the country and will include more than 150 children's cancer centers. Most of the institutions that belong to the NCI-sponsored POG and CCG will be part of the Network. A family's pediatrician or family doctor often can refer them to a comprehensive children's cancer center where quality health care is delivered by teams. CIS information specialists will provide the names, addresses, and telephone numbers for children's cancer centers that belong to the Children's Cancer Group, and the Pediatric Oncology Group, the Wilms' Tumor Study Group. All of the cancer centers that participate have met strict standards of excellence for childhood cancer care.
Many families receive helpful information from their doctors, nurses, or social workers.
In addition, various organizations offer support to families, including help with transportation, lodging, and financial assistance. It offers information and assistance to families through a national parent information service, newsletters, and other publications. It also has local chapters in many towns and cities around the United States and these can be an important sources of practical information and support for families. Financial assistance and consultation services for referrals to other means of local support are offered by chapters of the Leukemia Society of America to patients with leukemia, lymphomas, and myeloma. LSA also provides educational materials for patient and family members through local chapters and the Home Office.