Transportation program announced for area cancer patients
Recognizing that transportation to and from treatment is often one of the most difficult challenges cancer patients face, The Cancer Care Center at Battle Creek Health System is partnering with the American Cancer Society to make transportation for treatments more accessible.
Cancer patients and their families may have one less obstacle in their cancer treatment plan thanks to the partnership between Gary Minneman Jr., Sunshine Toyota in Battle Creek; The Cancer Care Center at BCHS; Denso Manufacturing; and the American Cancer Society. This partnership, called 'Road to Recovery,' is bringing together community organizations that have expressed an interest in addressing the cancer incidence rate in Calhoun and surrounding counties.
"This important community initiative is designed to identify cancer patients' transportation barriers, find solutions through community partnerships, and transport patients to their lifesaving and life-sustaining treatments," says Dr. Randy Mudge, medical director of radiation oncology at The Cancer Care Center at BCHS. "For some, transportation has limited their ability to receive cancer treatment in a timely manner. This program will go a long way in helping them on their personal road to recovery."
"No one should have to miss an appointment with one of our oncologists because they don't have a vehicle to get them here," says Jayme Carrico, director of oncology services at The Cancer Care Center. "Many patients may need daily or weekly treatments, often over a period of months. For those who have no car or are simply too ill to drive, this new program will help address those concerns."
Cancer patients and their families can call the American Cancer Society at 800-227-2345 365 days a year and speak to a cancer information specialist about their diagnosis, treatment, or other needs that may affect their cancer experience. When a transportation need is identified the specialist will contact the Road to Recovery coordinator who will begin the process of matching volunteer drivers to patients.
This program is not limited to a specific geographical area. Its goal is to have enough trained volunteers to address any medical request from cancer patients or their families for transportation assistance to Battle Creek Health System. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer driver or for more information, contact Jean Thompson at 800-465-5244 or email jean.thompson@cancer.org. The local American Cancer Society office provides a simple training program and the opportunity to meet with fellow volunteers throughout the year.
Battle Creek Health System, sponsored by two parent organizations--Trinity Health (the fourth largest Catholic health system in the U.S. with 12 hospitals, 9 nursing homes, 19 senior house facilities, 8 home health care agencies, and 4 hospices in Michigan alone) and BCHS Community Partners, is accredited by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Battle Creek Health System as a recipient of the 2008 HealthGrades Orthopaedic Surgery Excellence Award(tm). HealthGrades is a leading health care information company that provides objective 'report card' ratings nationwide. BCHS provides excellent health care for the community and promotes wellness for the whole person with access and compassion for all. For the latest medical information, visit the BCHS web site at www.bchealth.com or call the BCHS Marketing Department at (269) 966-8132.
More News |
