Our Philosophy
Learn More About Our Philosophy: Chat with Us | Email Us
If you or a loved one has received a cancer diagnosis, you can fight back. Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) encourages you to take an active role in the healing process.
CTCA clinicians believe in your fundamental right to be informed about, and to choose among, the best available options for your cancer treatment. It’s all part of our Patient Empowerment MedicineSM philosophy of care.
What is patient empowerment medicine?
A Patient Empowerment MedicineSM approach means our doctors offer to educate and empower you and your caregivers to actively and meaningfully participate in your cancer care.
As a patient at CTCA, you will meet with a multidisciplinary team of cancer experts who will explain the role their practice area can play in your treatment. Rather than telling you what you need, your care team will listen to you and provide clear, well-defined choices. Then, they will help you decide on a treatment plan that best suits your individual needs.
At CTCA, your care team will:
- Take time to listen to you and answer your questions
- Educate you about your treatment options
- Invite you into decision making process, if you wish to participate
- Provide a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs
- Work within your schedule, not what may be convenient for them
- Fully involve your family members in the process, if you want to involve them
How can patient empowerment help me during cancer treatment?
Empowerment during cancer care may help you:
- Feel more in control of your life
- Make informed decisions about your care
- Choose treatments best suited to you
- Build confidence to face challenges
- Feel hopeful and empowered
What if I feel like I don’t have enough energy to take an active role in my care?
Patient empowerment doesn’t mean you have to assume the responsibility for your cancer care all by yourself. While we value your ability to understand and participate in the treatment process, we also understand your desire to play an active role in the process may change from time to time. Your CTCA care team will work with you and your family at whatever level you are comfortable to empower you with information, guidance and support the way you need it.
I'd like to know more. Where do I go from here?
To help you decide if CTCA is right for you, our Oncology Information Specialists (OIS) are available around the clock—24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can call us by phone at 1-1-800-615-3055, send an email, or chat online.
At CTCA, we understand you have important decisions to make about your treatment. Our OIS representatives are here to provide information and resources to help you make decisions that are right for you.
Learn More: Patient Empowerment Tips
For helpful tips for empowering yourself during cancer treatment, read our June 2007 newsletter, featuring the role of patient empowerment in cancer care. To subscribe to our free monthly e-newsletter, visit the CancerCenter Newsletter Sign Up page today.
