Nurse navigators and support services

Nurse navigators

Our cancer nurse navigators support you by connecting the dots and being your one point of contact throughout your cancer journey. They are here to make sure you know what various phases of treatment will be, who you will meet, and where you will need to go, as well as answer any questions or concerns and connect you with support services you might need.
 

Support services

Support services are available to you and your support system. They can help reduce side effects from treatment or cut interruptions or delays in your care.

This practice can decrease pain and reduce severe nausea, such as from chemotherapy. Talk with your cancer care team to see if it is right for you. To confirm benefit coverage for this service contact membership services at 1-800-813-2000 (TTY 711).

Kaiser Permanente Northwest Cancer Center has developed several classes and support groups to help you during your cancer journey. Talk to your care team to learn more or go to kp.org/cancerclasses/nw for a list of current classes and groups.

As part of the Kaiser Permanente Northwest Cancer Center, cancer counselors provide educational and emotional support to cancer patients, their children, families, and friends. For inquires and appointments call the counseling staff directly, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at:

Caregiving comes with many joys and challenges. We provide support and resources for caregivers. Talk to your cancer team for more information. For a list of classes and groups available through Kaiser Permanente Northwest go to kp.org/cancerclasses/nw . 

Financial counselors can help when cost is an issue in receiving necessary care or medication. You may qualify for financial aid from federal, state, or local programs — no matter what your income is. They can also help you understand your health insurance and help you seek financial aid early on. Financial counselors can also help with:

  • Cost questions
  • The steps needed to make your financial arrangements go smoothly
  • Payment plans
  • Medicaid and other program applications
Being diagnosed with cancer can bring up many feelings, including fear or uncertainty. Our peer support program provides you with one-on-one support from someone who has had your type of cancer. You can also become a mentor to others. Talk to your cancer care team or nurse navigator to learn more.

Physical therapy is available to patients who are going through or have been through cancer treatment. Physical therapists can help with:

  • Exercise
  • General strength and mobility
  • Lymphedema
  • Painful intercourse

Talk to your cancer team or nurse navigator to see if you would benefit from physical therapy.

Nutrition and lifestyle changes can be beneficial during and after treatment, and together they can lower your risk of cancer recurrence. These lifestyle changes can also help protect against additional serious illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Talk to your cancer team to learn more about resources specific to cancer patients.

The use of supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, or natural products can be helpful, but may be harmful for some cancer patients. Let your cancer care team know about any supplements you are taking or are considering taking to be sure they are safe with your treatments.

Moving your body regularly can help you sleep better, maintain muscle tone, prevent falls, and improve mood. If you are just starting to exercise, talk with your cancer care team for a personalized recommendation. If you are already active and want personalized coaching, see our Wellness Coaching Program. Or use your Kaiser Permanente card to qualify for discounts at local fitness centers. (Be sure to log into your kp.org account first, and then select Fitness and Wellness Deals.)

Practicing mindfulness and self-care can improve sleep and quality of life as well as reduce anxiety. It is safe and effective at any stage of cancer treatment and after treatment ends. There are mindfulness and self-care apps available to members to help with sleep or managing feelings. Visit kp.org/selfcareapps/nw to find self-care apps.

Good health requires more than just health care. Social needs such as food, housing, and transportation, can be significant barriers to good health. Finding the right resources isn’t always easy. Below are some of the resources available to members and nonmembers. Our community support hub specialists can help you connect with resources that fit your needs. Call 1-800-260-7445 (TTY 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for help with the following:

  • Clothing and household goods
  • Food assistance
  • Housing and shelter
  • Income support
  • Individual and family support
  • Legal
  • Utilities
  • Transportation