National Cancer Centre Launches New Initiatives To Help Cancer Patients.
Thursday, 19 May 2005

Singapore, 19 th May 2005 – New patients who undergo treatment at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) will now benefit from a new orientation programme that not only takes care of their clinical but also their psychological and social needs.

All new patients will undergo a series of public education sessions by a multi-disciplinary team of oncology experts so that they will not only know more about the disease they are suffering but also get an overview of the current cancer treatment modalities. At the same time they will be attended to by medical social workers who will outline the psychological and social issues that a patient may face while undergoing treatment.

“The programme plays a preventive role and can pre-empt suicides and depression, ” said Mr Gilbert Fan, Manager, Psychosocial Oncology, NCCS. The NCCS’ holistic approach will help patients to understand from the onset about the resources available to help them live their best.

NCCS, which is the premier cancer centre in Singapore and the region, has also launched “The Revival Connection” initiative. This is a self-help support group mooted by patients and survivors with cancer recurrences. The group recognises that patients with cancer recurrence have specific needs which are not sufficiently addressed by the existing support group programmes.

“Through this initiative, members of “The Revival Connection” will feel a sense of solidarity in their battle against cancer. This is an excellent avenue for group members to connect with others in similar situations so as to share their knowledge, experiences and even fears with one another,” said Mr Fan.

At these free bi-monthly meetings, cancer survivors will organize social and recreational activities such as outings and chitchat sessions for the members. In addition, professionals will be invited to give talks and run group therapy sessions. The focus is to encourage cancer patients and survivors to get on with living life to the fullest.

NCCS Director, Prof Soo Khee Chee said: “As a medical institution of excellence, NCCS has always aspired to provide a high standard of medical care for our patients. Through our patient support programmes, we continually strive to provide our patients with the best possible holistic care.”

Patient Support Programme Details

For specific details on the recently launched patient orientation programmes and The Revival Connection, the public can call 6436 8117 or visit the website at www.nccs.com.sg.

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For more details and media interviews on the above, please contact:

Ms Adeline Teo, Officer, Corporate Communications,
Tel: 6236 9429, Fax: 6536 5501, e-mail: dcctsf@nccs.com.sg