Our Patient Centered Team
At the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, the comprehensive team approach to patient care involves the extraordinary talent of board certified medical and radiation oncologists, specially trained nurses, an oncology social worker, a dietitian, radiation therapists, and professionally trained administrative support staff.
The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center has two specially trained Registered Nurses with extensive experience in research. They are available to answer questions about current clinical research trials and prevention trials.
Nutritional Services
Good nutrition is an important part of cancer care before, during and after treatment. Eating the right kinds of foods can help one feel better and stay stronger. The Hunterdon Regional Cancer center staff are dedicated to helping patients learn about their nutritional needs as they cope with the side effects which are common during treatment.
Nutrition recommendations for cancer patients may actually be different from the usual suggestions for healthy eating. The recommendations may focus on increasing high calorie foods that emphasize protein in order to build strength to withstand the effects of cancer and its treatment. These recommendations may be necessry because of the changes that can occur in a person with cancer, including changes in eating habits and in the way the body uses nutrients.
Cancer therapies treat cancer by killing cells, and during this process, healthy cells as well as cancer cells may be damaged. This damage can cause side effects such as an altered sense of taste or smell, a sore mouth or throat, loss of appetite and changes in weight. These side effects can often be well controlled and usually go away after treatment, but could lead to a poor nutritional status if not addressed.
A dedicated registered dietitian who has extensive experience working with cancer patients is available at the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center to assess nutritional needs, assist with eating difficulties or answer any questions regarding nutrition.
If you have nutritional concerns at this time or any time during your treatment, please feel free to contact the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center and request an appointment with the oncology dietitian at (908) 788-6514.
Psychosocial Oncology Services
Of all life´s events, a cancer diagnosis may be one of the most challenging. For many new patients, this is a journey into unfamiliar territory. Countless questions occur, unsolicited emotions arise, and many practical matters require attention.
Your health care team at the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center includes a full-time, licensed clinical social worker who can offer you support and guidance as you cope with the stresses of a cancer diagnosis. Services may include individual and family counseling, education, linkage to community resources, patient advocacy and assistance with employment or insurance concerns, professionally led support programs, instruction on relaxation techniques, and referrals for complementary services such as acupuncture, massage and yoga.
You may contact the Coordinator, Oncology Mind & Body Services at the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center by calling (908) 237-2337, or ask your doctor or nurse to call on your behalf.