While medicine is making great strides in the fight against cancer and other illnesses, the approach of treating the physical side effects of cancer treatment is also gaining momentum.
The Image Recovery Center® at Memorial Hospital West in Pembroke Pines is a place of hope and healing, where patients receive personalized counseling and services to help them adjust to the physical and emotional changes they may experience due to chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery. The centers peaceful “spa-like” atmosphere cares for every aspect of cancer patients non-medical needs. “During the course of medical treatment for cancer, patients often experience hair loss, skin discoloration and scarring,” explained Dr. Aruna Mani, breast oncologist at the Memorial Hospital West Breast Cancer Center. “Others may find their appearance has changed dramatically and, sometimes, permanently. The Image Recovery Center staff educates cancer patients about possible side effects associated with their treatments and surgery, and how to prevent or address concerns.” The Image Recovery Center features three beauty salon stations, a waiting area and reception area. Acupuncture and massage are available along with an array of products clinically proven to be gentle enough for use by immune-compromised cancer patients. In addition, patients have access to an array of wigs, prosthesis and products to enhance or maintain the image the patient had prior to starting cancer treatment. Integral Part of Patients Total Plan The Image Recovery Center® is an integral part of the Memorial Cancer Institutes interdisciplinary approach to planning, implementing and evaluating the needs of cancer patients. The staff works closely with each patient and his or her medical team to develop a personalized appearance plan that focuses on promoting wellness and restoring dignity.
The plan may include everything from simple but necessary tips on scalp care after hair loss and beauty and skin care tools and techniques to selecting wigs and fitting prosthetics, according to Dr. Mani.
The center opened in April, 2008 adjacent to the Breast Cancer Center in a combined space of 8,000 square feet. The new Breast Cancer Center has 10 infusion suites, four exam rooms and two doctors offices, in addition to a lab and pharmacy where chemotherapy is mixed on site. It also has wireless Internet and phone access as well as individual flat-screened televisions at each infusion suite.
“The idea of having both Centers together was to create a one-stop shop for cancer patients who are being treated for breast cancer and need to address the changes they are experiencing through treatment,” said Dr. Alejandra Perez, co-director of the Breast Cancer Centers.
The Image Recovery Center is open to all patients undergoing cancer treatment anywhere in the tri-county area and beyond. No formal referrals are required, and the center will work with patients to confirm insurance eligibility, coverage and pre-certification requirements for wigs, mastectomy products, compression garments and other products and services. For patients convenience, after-hours and inpatient consultations are available.