Ovarian Cancer Treatments – Spiritual Support
Learn More About Ovarian Cancer Spiritual Support: Chat with Us | Email Us
Spiritual Support for Ovarian Cancer
Spiritual care can play an integral role in the treatment process for many ovarian cancer patients. At Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), we strive to provide a universal umbrella of spiritual support for ovarian cancer patients, caregivers, family members, and staff. Our pastoral care team strives to create an open, supportive, and uplifting environment where all patients, from any faith, are empowered to explore the spiritual aspects of healing.
At CTCA, we recognize and respect that spirituality is an integral part of life. Research has suggested an interconnected nature between spirituality and healing. Spirituality has also been associated with improved emotional adjustment among cancer patients, including reduced feelings of loneliness, anxiety and depression.
The pastoral care team at CTCA provides you and your loved ones with the opportunity to explore the spiritual component in your ovarian cancer care through a variety of programs and services, including the following:
- New patient orientation
- Individual and group prayer
- Prayer chains facilitated by hospital staff
- Counseling by a faith representative of your choice
- Weekly interfaith worship services
- Patient support groups that focus on healing, faith and life
- Family consultations
- Interface and communication with your local pastor and church
- Telephone consultations with patients and/or family members
Spiritual Assessment
Upon your request, a member of our pastoral care staff will personally visit you within the first 48 hours of your initial admission for ovarian cancer treatment. This visitation helps us develop a relationship and rapport with you (and your family as appropriate).
This meeting will also address your unique spiritual needs and issues. All assessments will be person-centered, respecting your religion, culture and age. Ongoing assessment of your spiritual needs during your ovarian cancer treatment is driven by you and/or your family members’ willingness to talk and share.
Spiritual Care
New ovarian cancer patients (first time admissions) at CTCA can also take part in a voluntary group orientation session, which reviews the role of spiritual care. Based on your choices and identified needs, our pastoral care team will work with you to develop a personalized spiritual care plan.
Spiritual care at CTCA is divided into three main categories:
1. Assessment: This consists of an initial assessment of your physical health and medical needs at the beginning of your ovarian cancer treatment. Throughout your care, our chaplains will interact regularly with you and other members of your care team to find ways to support you.
2. Direct Care: Our chaplains are available for visitation, counsel, prayer, and patient rights issues. They can help you work through such issues as life values, suffering, healing, grief/loss, despair/hope, guilt/forgiveness, fear/peace, and anger/acceptance.
3. Extended Care: After your ovarian cancer treatment is complete, we will continue to provide spiritual support by phone and through our spiritual outreach program and website, Our Journey of Hope®.
Cancer Treatment Centers of America serves a significant population of non-local ovarian cancer patients. As a result, your CTCA chaplain becomes your primary spiritual care provider during the in-patient treatment period. Their goal is to develop and maintain a relationship with you based on trust and rapport.
Next Topic: Image Enhancement for Ovarian Cancer
