What is Practical Assistance?
WCRC provides different programs and resources to help our clients access care, education, and support to guide them throughout their cancer experience.
We offer many practical assistance services including:
- Financial Assistance
- Patient Navigation
Patient Navigation
Our patient navigation program strives to reduce medical and treatment barriers via culturally-centered communication about a cancer diagnosis and treatment options; reduce loneliness through ongoing emotional support; and empower our clients to be advocates by working with their doctors and medical team.
What patient navigation services at WCRC include:
- Building a trusting and respectful relationship with each client
- Accompaniment to medical and treatment appointments (service is on pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic)
- Coordinating cancer care (case management)
- Empowering clients to communicate with their doctors
- Collaborating with social workers
- Transportation in conjunction with navigation (service is on pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic)
- Home visits as needed (service is on pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic)
- Helping clients process and adjust to life-changing experiences
- Support throughout the cancer journey (including survivorship)
Who can benefit from patient navigation?
Navigation is open to all women of all ethnic backgrounds with a cancer diagnosis. Individuals who believe they are unable to maneuver the medical system and reside within Alameda County may benefit from having a patient navigator. Additionally, studies have shown that marginalized populations encounter barriers and access to quality medical care after a cancer diagnosis. Thus, our African American and Latinx Services programs strive to reduce the negative impacts affecting both ethnic groups.
How can I contact you?
If you feel patient navigation support would be helpful to you, please call 510.601.4040.