Patient Resources

The Florida Hospital Cancer Institute provides oncology services to every clinic, including the BMT unit.  These services are available to you at no extra charge during diagnosis, the actual transplant procedure, post-transplant and follow up, whether you are outpatient or inpatient. These services assist patients with the practical and emotional challenges faced when undergoing a stem cell transplant.

• Individual and group counseling.  Get support and education to deal with anxiety or depression during the period of illness adjustment, for both patient and caregiver

• Stress management information

• Home health care, hospice or other in-home care support referrals

• Information about advanced directives; living will, health care power of attorney

• Assistance in obtaining medical equipment and supplies

• Assistance in accessing funding from support organizations (Financial disability information, medication assistance programs, as well as income interpretation issues0

• Lodging referrals during the treatment portion of post-transplant clinic protocols.

• Transportation information

• Resources for wigs, prosthetic devices

• Referrals to community mental health professional for long term care follow up

Insurance & Housing Issues

Your health insurance policy determines treatment coverage and limits. One of our insurance specialists will submit a formal written request to your insurance company to determine the extent of coverage for transplant-related costs.  Other sources of funding are also available and we can help you investigate those alternate avenues.

You can expect to spend several months in the Orlando area for testing, treatment and recovery. If you're from out of town, we can help you find temporary housing

Social and Psychological Support

Deciding to have a stem cell transplant gives rise to a host of physical, emotional, economic and vocational factors that will impact both you and your family.  Caring, personalized guidance by our BMT staff will help you navigate these issues as you learn to cope with the realities of your disease and what it will take to overcome them.

At your disposal is a full complement of professionals dedicated to maintaining and improving your physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing as you deal with this stressful chapter of your life.   Psychologists, psychiatrists, child life specialists, social workers, clergy and a lodging coordinator are all available to help. Patients and family members will meet with a psychologist and social workers to develop a workable support plan to take forward with you.