Patient and Family Services During Cancer Care

We offer a broad range of wellness and supportive services that bring comfort to you and your loved ones. Our patient and family services department coordinates the services that make it easier to heal.

Supportive therapies we offer

We prevent and treat problems that could get in the way of your cancer care. These problems may include emotional challenges, side effects and complications. For more information or to make an appointment, call 210-450-5570.

Our supportive care services include:

• Nutrition counseling: Our registered dietitian explains the role of nutrition in cancer treatment and recovery. We assess whether you are getting the nutrients you need. We also explain how to get more of the nutrients you need to stay healthy.
• Emotional support: Our licensed clinical psychologist specializes in helping patients cope with unpleasant thoughts and feelings. Problems we help you address include anxiety, depression, troubled relationships and body image issues.
• Help from social workers: We help you navigate unexpected and difficult challenges. Our licensed clinical social workers are sometimes available on a drop-in basis for concerns that just can’t wait.
• Supportive cancer care clinic: Many patients see a cancer doctor specializing in supportive care, a registered dietitian and other specialists in one visit. Read more about our supportive cancer care clinic.
• Additional services: You have access to speech therapists who help you with difficulty swallowing. We also have physical therapists who can help you regain strength and get relief from tight muscles. Your cancer care team coordinates these services as necessary.

Cancer support groups

Patients, their loved ones and survivors are all welcome to participate in our support groups. Members of our team guide discussions on important topics. You benefit from the experiences and encouragement of other support group members. To learn more about our support groups, call 210-450-5570.

We offer a general support group for adults with cancer. We also host groups for: 

• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Sarcoma

Survivorship services

We help you stay as healthy as possible after completing cancer treatment. You get a personalized plan that may include:

• Screening tests to detect the early signs of cancer that comes back
• Immunizations to reduce your risk of conditions such as hepatitis B, a liver infection that can lead to cancer
• Follow-up visits to assess and treat side effects such as nerve damage that may occur years after completing treatment
• Imaging tests and monitoring to detect early signs of new cancer

Wellness programs and classes

We help you learn more about living with cancer and how to maximize well-being during and after treatment. To learn more about wellness programs and classes, call 210-450-5570.

Our offerings include:

• Cooking demonstrations: Our wellness center has a professional kitchen with a classroom where we teach healthy cooking techniques. Classes are free, and you are welcome to bring your loved ones.
• Education: Our experts, along with other community specialists, lead cancer education sessions that are free and open to the public. We cover topics such as cancer treatment options, side effects and how to maximize your quality of life.
• Exercise and relaxation: Gentle exercise and making an effort to relieve stress can help you feel better during cancer treatment. We offer free gentle yoga and chair massage.
• Expressive arts: We lead creative activities that help you get your mind off your health and relieve stress. Activities may include knitting or using clay art to symbolize a wish for good health.

Helpful services

We offer additional services that make your life a little easier during cancer treatment. For more information about these services call 210-450-5570.

Helpful services we offer include:

• Financial counselors: If you do not have insurance or you are struggling with medical bills, these specialists are here for you. Financial counselors help you explore insurance coverage and financial assistance options.
• Lodging assistance: If you are coming to Mays Cancer Center from some distance, we may be able to assist you. We work with local organizations that provide support to patients with cancer. These organizations may be able to offer reduced rates when available.
• On-site food pantry: This service is available to patients in need, thanks to support from the San Antonio Food Bank and SA Cancer Council.
• Transportation services: If your insurance plan offers transportation, we can help you access these services. We also work with local organizations that support cancer patients. They may be able to help you find transportation at a reduced rates, if available.