A cancer diagnosis is a scary ordeal. By working closely with a care coordinator, patients have an ally who is with them through the entire treatment process to help them feel a bit more secure.

“As a care coordinator, I’m a liaison between breast cancer patients and the many professionals who take care of them – radiologists, surgeons, oncologists, pathologists, nurses and therapists,” says Jeanne Harkness, RN, a care coordinator at Park Nicollet Jane Brattain Breast Center.

Patients and families take solace knowing that with a single phone call, Harkness is there to help them along their journeys. Having worked with cancer patients for 30 years, Harkness has keen insight into the special needs of patients, their families and care teams. (Read “Behind the scenes of breast cancer.”)

No easy introductions
Her role with newly diagnosed breast cancer patients begins with a phone call. “When biopsies confirm cancer, my job is to notify patients,” Harkness says. “Even though they know breast cancer is a very real possibility, having their suspicions confirmed is still a huge shock.”

Before making that call, Harkness reviews her patients’ medical history and the events leading to their diagnosis. Once patients have a few moments to comprehend their news, she works with them to schedule a meeting within the next few days. She advises patients to bring a partner, sister or friend for added support.

During that meeting, Harkness goes over the pathology report and packets of information explaining breast cancer treatment, all of which patients take home. She also educates patients on different surgical procedures to remove the cancer and their healing processes. Patients then meet with a breast cancer surgeon, who discusses their surgery options.

Treatment options
Options for surgery may include a lumpectomy, which removes only the part of the breast that has cancer, or a mastectomy, which removes the entire breast. Some patients may opt to have a double mastectomy to avoid future breast cancer. Breast reconstruction is another consideration, which is performed by a plastic surgeon.

Harkness also discusses radiation and chemotherapy, their side effects and when these treatments are needed. “If you have a lumpectomy, you almost always need radiation treatment, but if you have a mastectomy, you may be able to avoid radiation,” she explains.

Coping with emotional needs
Facing breast cancer is a huge emotional challenge. For most women, this is a time of uncertainty and grieving – for the loss of their health and their plans for the near future. Harkness encourages patients to meet with a therapist at Park Nicollet Cancer Center, who understands the special challenges of breast cancer.

Park Nicollet Jane Brattain Breast Center offers a variety of support programs for patients with breast cancer. One group is geared specifically for women who are newly diagnosed. Women and their partners also can benefit from a support group geared specifically for couples.

Related support
Park Nicollet recently introduced Nutrition, a new class that focuses on the nutritional needs of people with cancer, during and after treatment. Another class, known as Fabulous Faces, helps women cope with the physical effects of chemotherapy, especially hair loss. “During class, presenters discuss headscarves, wigs and new ways to apply makeup, plus hand out plenty of free samples. It helps women feel good about themselves,” Harkness says.

Park Nicollet Cancer Center also offers post-treatment class, for women who have completed cancer treatment. It focuses on such topics as the fear of cancer recurring, returning to work and coping with lingering symptoms, such as weakness and fatigue. (For more information on all classes, visit our Health classes and support Web page.) 

“I really enjoy being with patients, reassuring them and answering their questions every step of the way,” Harkness says.

To learn more about coordinated care, call Park Nicollet Jane Brattain Breast Center at 952-993-3700, or visit parknicollet.com.